Heavy rain and flooding expected locally

Local authorities are keeping an eye on area rivers, creeks and streams after a Flood Watch was issued. The Bartholomew County Emergency Management Agency says that moderate to heavy rainfall is expected through Thursday night. Isolated thunderstorms will be possible. Rain may briefly mix with, or change to, snow before ending Thursday night. They say the heaviest rainfall is expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning and then again Wednesday night through Thursday evening.

Bartholomew County EMA says the Driftwood River is expected to crest Saturday at 1 p.m. at 14.2 feet. Flood stage is 11 feet.

The Flatrock River is expected to crest Friday at 7 a.m. at 13.1 feet. Flood stage is 11 feet.

The East Fork White River is expected to crest Friday at 7 p.m. at 10.8 feet. Flood stage is nine feet.

With these projections, Bartholomew County officials say we will see flooding in the usual areas. These include:

– 400 N
– 450 N between Talley Rd and Marr Rd
– 800 S
– Southern Crossing
– SR 11 at Garden City and north of 800 S
– 930 S
– 225 N
– Enin Rd
– Sunland Rd
– Tellman Rd
– S. Gladstone
– 150 E north of Southern Crossing

Authorities say that the ground is already saturated from previous rain, snow and flooding. The Sheriff’s Department will be monitoring roads that are closed due to flooding. If you caught disregarding signs, you may be ticketed. Most importantly, you are urged to never drive through flooded roads. A foot of water will float many vehicles. Two feet of rushing water will carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pickups.