Heavy rain has been producing widespread flooding in parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri and Arkansas. Flash Flood Emergencies were issued in some areas Monday, with some cities seeing up to 8″ of rain.
Here's a video showing the dangers associated with driving into water on the roadway – it is impossible to determine how deep the water is. Remember: #TurnAroundDontDrown.At approximately 2:19 a.m. today, BAFD was dispatched to 6600 E. Albany St. in northeast Broken Arrow in response to a vehicle that had been swept off the roadway by fast-moving water. When firefighters arrived on scene, they found an adult male clinging to a fence post and unable to escape the raging water. After quickly evaluating the scene and potential hazards, firefighter Robert Goode, assisted by Acting Captain Branson Phillips, deployed a life safety rope to the stranded victim and entered the water to make their way across the current. Goode was then able to deploy a floatation device to the victim. After the victim put on the floatation device, Goode assisted him back across the current to safety. The victim was transported to the hospital in stable condition. While receiving medical attention, the victim reported that he had been clinging to the post for nearly five hours before a passerby heard his cry for help and called 911.Great work Engine 4, Ladder 1, Ladder 6, Squad 4, Battalion Chief and Brush Truck 2!#okwx
Posted by Broken Arrow Fire Department on Tuesday, May 21, 2019
[Flood rescue by the Broken Arrow, Oklahoma Fire Department on Tuesday morning. From Storyful]
For many weeks now, the Mississippi River Valley has been dealing with devastating flooding. Unfortunately, this week’s storm system brings along the threat for more heavy rain.
A potent low pressure system will bring severe storms today (Wednesday) to the central and southern Plains, along with heavy rain. These storms will tap into ample Gulf moisture that is pushing into area. The threat of heavy rain has already prompted widespread flood alerts to be issued.
The heaviest of the rain today (Wednesday) will fall from Missouri to Oklahoma. This is where the Weather Prediction Center is highlighting the great risk for excessive rainfall. The flash flood threat will continue through at least Friday across the Plains.
From now until Thursday, some spots could pick up 5″ of rain. Many spots will likely see 2-4″ of rain in the next 48 hours.
Not only do we have to be concerned about the widespread severe storms today (Wednesday) and later this week, but also the threat for flooding across the Plains. Stay tuned to WeatherNation for flooding and severe weather updates.
For WeatherNation, Meteorologist Kate Mantych.
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