ESFLOT Multiple waves of rainfall are possible over portions of the Midwest over the next few days. Flooding of rivers, creeks, ditches, and poor drainage areas is possible across portions of northeastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana late Friday into Saturday. River rises and flooding may also occur along the Iroquois, Kankakee, and Illinois rivers. Periods of showers and thunderstorms will move through the region late Friday into Saturday. Swaths of rainfall amounts up to 1-2 inches may occur, generally southeast of I-55. Localized amounts in excess of 2 inches are possible, especially closer to west central Indiana and east central Illinois. High soil moisture and elevated river levels from recent rainfall may increase runoff and the chance that rivers near or exceed flood stage due to additional rainfall. Flooding of yards, fields, and other poor drainage areas may also occur. The northwestern edge of the heavy rainfall is expected to have a sharp gradient, with relatively light rainfall amounts near heavier rainfall amounts. Thus, small shifts in the forecasted track of this swath of heavy rainfall could mean significant differences in river crests and the probability of flooding. This outlook means that elevated water levels and potential impacts are possible, but not yet certain. Persons should closely monitor forecasts including the possibility of flood watches, warnings, and advisories. The next scheduled update to this outlook is tomorrow morning.
