Flood possibilities as significant rainfall expected this weekend

Officials urge preparation and caution as river and flash flooding could impact the region

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The ABC 36 Storm Team is closely monitoring potentially significant flooding from weekend rainfall, warning residents to stay informed and prepared.

Small streams and rivers may transform into fast-moving water, creating risks of river flooding and flash flooding across the Commonwealth.

Lexington Emergency Management Public Information Officer Emily Fay emphasized the importance of preparation.

“If you’re in a low-lying area, expect for that water to rise quickly, because it’s all going to pool down at the bottom,” she said, “have a plan and be prepared to evacuate if need be,” said Fay.

Experts say flooding during this time of year is common, but its severity varies depending on location.

“In Eastern Kentucky, where you get relatively steep terrain, so you got the chance of more rapid runoff of rainfall off those slopes and into the streams, that’s going to be of more concern,” said Alan Fryar, a professor of earth and environmental sciences at the University of Kentucky.

For Central Kentucky counties, Fryar noted the risks are different.

“What we’re more likely to see is flash flooding along smaller creeks and streams that flow into the Kentucky River,” said Fryar.

If floodwaters rise along roadways, officials urge drivers to heed the warning: “Turn around and don’t drown.” Fay underscored the dangers of driving into floodwaters.

“It only takes 6 inches to move away a person, and 12 a car, a smaller car, 18 to 24 inches to move an SUV or a truck,” Fay said. “And you think your jacked-up F250 is going to save you, but it can get moved along just as well as a Prius. When you get stuck in those waters, someone has to go get you, and it puts everybody’s life in danger, so be safe, don’t do it,” said Fay.

Both emergency management officials and experts agree: staying aware of warnings and understanding the risks in your area are the best ways to prepare for potential flooding this weekend.