Paducah, KY — A multi-day stretch of torrential rainfall is forecast to soak the Quad State region starting Wednesday, prompting a widespread Flood Watch across southern Illinois, southeast Missouri, western Kentucky, and southwest Indiana.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the watch goes into effect Wednesday afternoon and will remain active through Sunday morning. Meteorologists warn that repeated rounds of heavy rain could lead to flash flooding and river flooding across low-lying areas. Forecast models suggest some locations could receive up to 12 inches of rainfall by the weekend’s end.
Communities including Paducah, Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, and Evansville are among the cities at heightened risk. Residents in flood-prone zones are urged to prepare now and remain alert for potential flash flood warnings as the weather event evolves.
The extended duration and intensity of the rain could push smaller creeks and streams out of their banks, while larger rivers may see prolonged high water levels. Officials recommend avoiding low-lying roadways, securing outdoor property, and reviewing local emergency plans.
While flooding is common in spring, forecasters emphasize that this volume of rain over several days is rare and potentially dangerous. Updated alerts will be issued as conditions develop.
