Submitted by

Dee Loflin, SMT Manager/Writer

Stoddard County, Missouri - The National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky has issued a FLOOD WATCH to remain in effect through Friday evening.

The FLOOD WATCH continues for:

* Portions of Southern Illinois, Western Kentucky and Southeast Missouri, including Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Mississippi, New Madrid, Perry Ripley, Scott Stoddard and Wayne Counties.

* Widespread heavy rainfall is expected tonight through Friday and into Friday evening in areas along and west of the Mississippi River. Storm totals in the 3 to 4 inch range are probable...with locally higher amounts close to 5 inches in areas that experience repeated thunderstorm activity. Right now...it appears the highest rain totals will occur along and west of a Perryville to Dexter Missouri line.

* Given the river flooding of the past few weeks and the high soil moisture content...additional flooding appears likely along area rivers and streams. localized flash flooding will also be possible.

precautionary/preparedness actions...

A flood watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts.

You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.