Paducah, KY – Roadways across southeast Missouri and southern Illinois could flood overnight as a surge of thunderstorms brings up to 4 inches of rain through Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, showers and storms will intensify this evening, with “training” storms—repeated downpours over the same areas—increasing the risk of flash flooding. Most affected areas could see 1 to 3 inches of rainfall, but localized totals may exceed 4 inches. The highest threat zone stretches from Poplar Bluff and Cape Girardeau up through Farmington and St. Louis into southern Illinois cities like Carbondale and Mt. Vernon.
Residents should avoid travel on flood-prone roads, especially overnight into early Thursday. “Turn around, don’t drown” remains critical advice, as even shallow water can sweep away vehicles. Power outages and brief travel delays are possible in impacted zones.
Looking ahead, the risk for severe storms returns Friday afternoon, with damaging winds as the primary threat. Additional thunderstorm chances persist into Saturday, though confidence in storm strength remains low.
Warnings remain in effect through Thursday morning. Updated advisories may follow as conditions evolve.
