PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (IL) Flooding in southeastern IL

Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2013 15:01:36 EST

Summary: Flooding in southeastern IL

Up to 6 inches of rain fell in southeastern IL over the weekend. This rain has resulted in localized flooding in small drainages; and in the Skillet Fork, Bonpas Creek, and lower Embarras River watersheds.

The worst flooding is expected on the Skillet Fork near Wayne City, IL. It is expected to crest tonight slightly above its NWS "Major Flood" stage at 20.1'.

All gages in the affected area are operating properly. One crew is deployed with trucks and boats to verify ratings.

It is interesting to note that this is the first flooding in Illinois since around April 2012, the beginning of the 2012 drought.

It is also interesting to note that this rainfall event is helping ease the low-water concerns on a stretch of the Mississippi River between St. Louis, MO and Cairo, IL. The US Army Corps of Engineers has been actively dredging and removing rock pinnacles in this stretch in an attempt to resolve navigation issues due to the low water.



Sub-Region: Midwest; Region: Central United States