Here is the latest update regarding the heavy rain event that will begin this evening and continue through Saturday.
Our entire area is currently under a Flood Watch. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding to occur. Currently they are predicting 3 to 5 inches of rain.
The rain is expected to change to freezing rain, mixed with sleet and snow Saturday starting about 10 A.M. and will peak at approximately 11 P.M. Saturday night and end at approximately 7 A.M. on Sunday.
The Yellow River is currently at 5.22 feet. A flood forecast is not currently available. Flood stage is 13 feet. The Tippecanoe River is currently at 7.86 feet. The flood forecast is currently at 11.5 feet by 7am on Monday, January 13. Flood stage is 12 feet. Marshall County EMA Director Clyde Avery said, “I would expect this to most likely be higher if we receive the forecast amount of rain.”
Flooding will occur with this event and we will see significant flooding of low lying areas, streams, creeks, ditches and retention ponds. Moderate river flooding is also likely along with flooding and ponding on road surfaces with the potential for some roads to flood over which may make for hazardous travelling conditions for the general public and may impede response from emergency responders.
The freezing rain, mixed with sleet and snow on Saturday will make travel conditions extremely hazardous resulting in a number of slide-off and accidents.
People living in flood prone locations should move vulnerable property to higher ground, closely monitor the forecast and be prepared to implement their emergency plan.
Never drive around road closed due to high water signs. Never drive through high water. Turn around and find a safer route. Be aware of the potential for hazardous conditions on Saturday. If you must go out, give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
Marshall County will be evaluating the situation as it develops and determine what level of travel advisory is appropriate for the safety of the public.
