Springfield, MO – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an extended Flood Watch for multiple rivers across Missouri, urging residents in affected areas to prepare for potential flooding. The watch, which began Thursday morning, will remain in effect through the weekend, covering a range of counties, including Pulaski, Laclede, Stone, Christian, and Phelps.
The watch impacts several rivers, including the Gasconade River at Hazelgreen, the Current River near Powder Mill, the Big Piney River below Fort Leonard Wood, and the James River near Boaz, among others. The NWS warns that river stages could rise rapidly, reaching flood levels by Saturday afternoon. The Gasconade River at Jerome and the James River at Galena are expected to approach or surpass flood stage over the weekend, with potential significant impacts in low-lying areas.
Key Locations Affected:
- Gasconade River at Hazelgreen: Flooding is possible in Pulaski and Laclede Counties, especially near the river’s gage site.
- Current River near Powder Mill: Shannon County could see floodwaters reach flood stage starting late Friday.
- Big Piney River below Fort Leonard Wood – East Gate: Fort Leonard Wood is on alert for potential flooding by Friday evening.
- Jacks Fork at Eminence: The river near Eminence in Shannon County could flood low-lying areas over the weekend.
- James River near Boaz: Rising waters may impact Stone and Christian Counties starting Saturday afternoon.
Rising Waters Expected to Impact Local Communities…