A powerful weather system is on track to drench Indiana, Kentucky, and Southern Illinois this weekend, bringing up to 6 inches of rain in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch, warning residents of the potential for rising water levels, hazardous road conditions, and localized flash flooding.
The storm is expected to begin Friday night and intensify through Saturday, with the heaviest rain falling Saturday afternoon and evening. Some locations could see rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, quickly overwhelming drainage systems and flooding low-lying areas.
Where and When Will the Flooding Be Worst?
This storm system will bring widespread rain, but some cities and regions are at higher risk for flooding due to the amount of rain expected and already saturated ground from recent storms.
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Indianapolis, Indiana: Rain will start Friday night, with steady downpours expected all day Saturday. Streets and low-lying areas could experience water buildup, making travel dangerous. High temperatures will be 44°F (7°C) on Saturday, dropping to 26°F (-3°C) at night, which means roads could refreeze overnight if standing water remains.
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Louisville, Kentucky: The city will see heavy rainfall throughout Saturday, with some thunderstorms possibly intensifying the downpours. A total of 4 to 6 inches of rain is expected, which could lead to road closures and localized flash flooding. Saturday’s high will be 52°F (11°C), with a low of 33°F (0°C).
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Carbondale, Illinois: Rainfall will be consistent throughout Saturday, with accumulation reaching 3 to 5 inches by late evening. Low-lying areas and streets prone to flooding may become impassable. Highs will be 50°F (10°C), with a low of 28°F (-2°C).
Why Is This Storm So Dangerous?
One of the biggest concerns with this storm is the sheer amount of rain in such a short period. Many areas have already seen rainfall this month, meaning the ground is already saturated and won’t be able to absorb much more water. This significantly increases the risk of flash flooding, which can be life-threatening in some situations.
Urban areas with concrete roads and poor drainage systems are especially vulnerable. Rivers and streams may also rise quickly, potentially overflowing their banks and leading to widespread flooding in flood-prone zones.
How to Stay Safe During Heavy Rain and Flooding
- Avoid driving through flooded roads. Just 6 inches of water can make a car lose control, and 12 inches can sweep a vehicle away.
- Move to higher ground if flooding is imminent—water can rise quickly.
- Secure important belongings in waterproof containers if you live in a flood-prone area.
- Keep an emergency kit ready, including food, water, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio.
- Stay updated with local weather alerts and warnings. If officials advise evacuations, follow their instructions immediately.
What’s Next?
The rain is expected to taper off by Sunday, but flooding may persist in some areas as rivers and streams continue to rise. In some locations, it may take several days for floodwaters to recede.
As this storm approaches, residents in Indiana, Kentucky, and Southern Illinois should take precautions now. This is shaping up to be a major flooding event, and those in flood-prone areas should be especially vigilant.
