In southern Illinois and western Kentucky, excessive rainfall has led to ongoing flooding in several counties. The affected areas include Massac and Pope counties in southern Illinois, as well as Calloway, Crittenden, Graves, and Livingston counties in western Kentucky. The flooding is expected to continue until 4:00 PM CDT.

According to Doppler radar and automated rain gauges at 11:15 AM CDT, heavy rain caused by thunderstorms has resulted in minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. Approximately 1.5 to 2 inches of rain has already fallen, with an additional inch expected to occur. As a result, there will be minor flooding in various locations, such as Paducah, Murray, Mayfield, Metropolis, Benton, and Calvert City.

The National Weather Service is urging residents to exercise caution and avoid flooded roads. It is vital to turn around and not drive through flooded areas, as most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles. Streams, rivers, and creeks can become dangerous in heavy rain, so it is essential to be aware of your location relative to these water sources.

The flooding situation is also affecting other areas such as Alexander, Massac, and Pulaski counties in southern Illinois, as well as Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, and McCracken counties in western Kentucky, and Mississippi and New Madrid counties in southeast Missouri. This flooding condition is expected to persist until 3:30 PM CDT.

Continuing until early Monday morning, there is a possibility of excessive runoff leading to flooding in rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone areas throughout southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, west Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. Multiple rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms are forecasted to pass through the region, with heavy rainfall increasing the likelihood and intensity of flooding. Residents are advised to monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take immediate action if flooding occurs.

The National Weather Service advises those living in flood-prone areas to stay vigilant and have flood preparedness measures in place. Stay tuned for further updates and be alert for possible flood warnings.