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Weather report: Flood warnings continue for Ohio as levels exceed forecasts; falling over next 5 days


Flood warnings continue for the Ohio River, whose levels have already exceeded earlier predictions, according to the National Weather Service.

At 10 a.m. Sunday the stage was 60.2 feet. Flood stage is 52 feet.

Photo by Chuck Eilerman, at Covington Riverfront Sunday morning

Moderate flooding is occurring and moderate flooding is forecast.

The river rose to near 60.7 feet on Sunday evening.

The river is expect to start falling but remain above flood stage for the next 5 days.

At stages near 61 feet, flooding worsens in the East End, as well as along the riverfront. Increasing numbers of homes and businesses in New Richmond are flooded. Pete Rose Way remains flooded and Kellogg Road flooding worsens.

Much of Route 52 continues to flood between Cincinnati and New Richmond. Backwater flooding up the Little

Low-lying roads in Newport, Ludlow and Bromley, Kentucky flood, as well as portions of Lawrenceburg outside the flood wall, as well as in Aurora, Indiana.

Ludlow reported only one way in and out — Highlands Road.

Kentucky Emergency Management (KYEM) continued the activation of the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) last night in support of severe weather, heavy rainfall, tornado activity and ongoing flooding conditions throughout Kentucky.  

Severe storms producing heavy rainfall and tornados swept across Kentucky over the weekend, causing flash flooding and property damages to homes and businesses.

“The severe storms that passed through caused significant damage in communities throughout Kentucky,” stated Michael Dossett, director of KYEM.  “We remind our citizens across the Commonwealth as they begin assessment and clean-up, there are still flooding dangers even though the storm activity has passed.  Be aware of your surroundings at all times, as flooding continues throughout many counties and rivers will continue to rise for several days.”

KYEM has received confirmation of three deaths attributed to the recent severe storm activity: one each in Logan, Simpson and Union counties.  KYEM area managers are currently assisting local emergency managers assessing damages.

Two EF 2 tornadoes hit Logan and Christian counties, and one EF1 tornado hit Warren county.

Officials remind citizens to take steps to keep themselves safe after flooding:

• Watch your step.  Flood waters often hide sharp and dangerous debris like broken glass and metal.

• Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear like boots, gloves and safety glasses when it comes to moving debris.

• Hands off! Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm or if it is wet to prevent being electrocuted.  Report any utility issues to your local utility company.

• Flooded homes are hazards Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering.

• Avoid walking in floodwater. It can be contaminated with oil, gasoline, or sewage.

• Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.

Officials also remind citizens that if they have any storm damage, to report it to their local emergency management director.

National Weather Service

Photos by Chuck Eilerman


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