PADUCAH – The National Weather Service in Paducah says historically high forecast rainfall amounts will heighten the risk of flash flooding and flooding Wednesday through Sunday.

So a Flood Watch will be in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Sunday morning for all of southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, western Kentucky and southwest Indiana.

Flash flooding and flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected. Preliminary projections of up to 1 foot of total rainfall over parts of the area is not out of the question.

Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and especially low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks.

Multiple rounds of locally heavy rainfall over several days will result in extreme forecast amounts of up to 1 foot of rain that will cause the risk of flash flooding and flooding to rise markedly.

You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flash Flood and Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.