Owensboro, it’s time to get ready. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for the Ohio River, which is expected to crest at 44.3 feet by Saturday afternoon. This means the river will rise above its usual levels, potentially causing flooding in areas along the banks. While it’s not predicted to be a major flood, the water could disrupt roads, homes, and businesses, so it’s a good idea to prepare now.
Why This Matters
The Ohio River is expected to crest at 44.3 feet, which is higher than usual and will cause the river to overflow its banks. While this won’t be a catastrophic flood, the river’s rising waters could cause localized flooding, especially for those who live or work near the river. Roads could be closed, and properties in flood-prone areas might experience damage. Even though the flood is expected to be minor, flooding can still cause major disruptions, and it’s important to take it seriously.
Conditions can change quickly, so staying informed and acting now will help you stay safe.
What You Should Do Right Now
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Stay Updated: The water is rising, and things can change fast. Keep an eye on local news, weather apps, and social media for the latest updates. By staying informed, you’ll know if there are any changes to the flood forecast or evacuation orders.
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Avoid Flood-Prone Roads: If you need to drive, avoid any roads that are near the river or that could be prone to flooding. Just six inches of water can make roads dangerous, and it’s easy to get stuck or swept away if you try to drive through floodwaters. If you see water covering a road, turn around. It’s not worth taking the risk.
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Move Important Items to Higher Ground: If you live near the river, take action now to protect your belongings. Move anything that could be damaged by water—electronics, furniture, and important documents—upstairs or to a higher location. Flooding can happen fast, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
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Prepare Your Home: Check that your sump pump (if you have one) is working properly. If you’re in a flood-prone area, consider using sandbags or other barriers to prevent water from getting into your home. And don’t forget to move outdoor furniture or trash bins that could get swept away in rising water.
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Have an Evacuation Plan: If you live in a flood-prone area, it’s always a good idea to have a plan for evacuation. Know the best routes to higher ground and make sure your car has enough gas to leave quickly if necessary. Keep an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, medications, and important documents ready to go.
What’s Coming Next?
The river will crest at 44.3 feet by Saturday, and while the water will eventually recede, it’s going to take a little time before everything returns to normal. Roads and infrastructure could be impacted for a few days, so be prepared for some lingering disruptions. Keep an eye on the situation, and don’t let your guard down until things fully settle.
The Ohio River is rising, but by taking some simple steps now, you can protect yourself, your family, and your property. Stay informed, stay prepared, and be ready to act if conditions change. While this might not be a major flood, it’s still a good idea to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
