Torrential Rains, Additional Flooding Expected in Area

Updated Watch/Warning information is n our weather section, located here.

Torrential rains and additional flooding are expected through the weekend in our area.

The National Weather Service in conjunction with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency has advised that from Wednesday through Monday, the I-70 corridor may receive seven inches of rain. The result will be significant low-level flooding and will be magnified as the ground is already saturated from recent rainfall. Tropical Storm Bill is predicted to be moving through the area on Friday into Saturday morning, followed by a cold front moving through on Sunday.

Effingham County Emergency Management Agency Director Pam Jacobs is urging citizens who live in, or must travel through, low-level areas to remain alert for increased flooding risk and to take appropriate steps to insure adequate supplies or access to alternate routes. Jacobs also reminds residents to check their sump pump systems and take necessary measures to prepare buildings, pets and livestock for torrential rains and flooding.

At the state level, IDOT Secretary Randy Blankenhorn offered these tips:

--never attempt to drive through flooded roads

--even if a road covered by water seems shallow enough to cross, do not attempt to cross it

--seek higher ground if your vehicle stalls in a flooded area; do not attempt to push your vehicle out of the water

IEMA Director James Joseph also offered these safety ideas:

--avoid skin contact with sewer water, especially cuts and sores. Keep them clean and covered

--do not eat or drink anything exposed to sewer water

--keep contaminated objects, water and hands away from mucous membranes (mouth, eyes and nose)

--wash hands frequently, especially after bathroom use, before eating and immdiately following contact with sewer water or contaminated objects or surfaces

The Ilinois Department of Natural Resources encourages boaters to stay off the water when river levels rise. The Effingham Water Authority governs vehicle travel on Lake Sara.