MIDWEST — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued widespread Flood Watches spanning parts of Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri, remaining in effect from Tuesday evening through late Thursday.
Multiple National Weather Service offices—including Topeka, Hastings, Wichita, Kansas City/Pleasant Hill, and Omaha/Valley—warn that a slow-moving, moisture-laden system will bring prolonged periods of heavy rain and excessive runoff to saturated soils.
What to Expect
- Heavy Rainfall: Widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are forecasted across the watch area, with localized amounts peaking at 5 inches or higher.
- Impacted Areas: The watch covers numerous counties across north-central and northeast Kansas, central and eastern Nebraska, western Iowa, and northwest Missouri. Major impacted cities include Manhattan, Lincoln, Omaha, Grand Island, Hastings, and Council Bluffs.
- Timing: Heavy rain rates and significant runoff are expected to peak from Tuesday night through Thursday evening, potentially overflowing rivers, creeks, streams, and low-lying, flood-prone locations.
Residents living in flood-prone areas are urged to monitor later forecasts closely and remain alert for possible Flood Warnings.
Flood Safety and Preparedness Tips
With excessive runoff threatening local waterways, emergency management agencies advise taking the following precautions:
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never drive or walk through flooded roadways. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and two feet of water can sweep most vehicles away.
- Monitor Local Alerts: Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or weather apps for real-time updates and potential Flood Warnings.
- Prepare to Move: If you live in a low-lying or flood-prone area, review your emergency plans and be ready to evacuate immediately if rising waters threaten your property.
- Avoid Downed Power Lines: Never touch electrical equipment or downed power lines if you are standing in water.
