MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for a large portion of central, south-central, and southeast Kansas, including Hutchinson, Wichita, Newton, McPherson and Lyons and surrounding communities. The watch is in effect from Thursday evening through Friday afternoon.
Forecasters warn that excessive rainfall could lead to flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and low-lying areas. The affected counties include Ellsworth, Saline, Rice, McPherson, Marion, Chase, Reno, Harvey, Butler, Greenwood, Kingman, and Sedgwick.
This is just a portion of a larger watch area that covers most of eastern Kansas, Missouri, and eastern Oklahoma.
The Weather Service says recent and expected rainfall could produce dangerous runoff, increasing the potential for flash flooding in urban and rural areas alike.
Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to monitor updated forecasts and be prepared to act quickly if flood warnings are issued.
Drivers are reminded to never attempt to cross flooded roads and to use caution during heavy rain.