Tahlequah, Okla. – A Flood Warning is in effect for the Illinois River in Cherokee County, where rising water could create dangerous conditions through Thursday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, the Illinois River near Tahlequah is expected to climb above flood stage just after midnight, cresting at 11.5 feet by Thursday morning before slowly receding later in the day. Flood stage for the river is 11.0 feet.
At that level, minor flooding occurs from Hanging Rock downstream toward Tahlequah. Officials warn floating the river will be hazardous due to strong turbulence, making recreation unsafe until waters subside.
By Wednesday afternoon, the river measured 7.3 feet, but forecasters expect it to rise steadily overnight. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid the river until conditions improve. Drivers should also remain cautious near low-lying roads, as runoff may cause water to pool in flood-prone areas.
The Flood Warning remains in effect until 3:15 p.m. Thursday, and additional advisories may follow if river levels stay elevated.
