While South County and most of the St. Louis region are no longer under a flood watch, additional thunderstorms are expected to produce heavy rainfall this evening into tonight.
According to the latest update from the National Weather Service, some thunderstorms could become strong to severe, with damaging winds up to 60 miles per hour and small hail. Heavy rainfall will exacerbate ongoing river flooding. A flood watch is in effect for much of the state south and southwest of Hillsboro.
Earlier today, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for much of the county, as well as St. Louis City and Franklin, Jefferson, St. Charles and Warren counties in Missouri, as well as Monroe and St. Clair counties in Illinois. Weather officials singled out St. Louis, St. Charles, Florissant, Chesterfield, Wildwood, University City, Ballwin, Kirkwood, Maryland Heights, Hazelwood, Webster Groves, Ferguson, Arnold and Manchester as some locations that will experience flash flooding. Belleville, Collinsville and Edwardsville in Illinois were also specifically named.
There have been reports of water over roadways, down traffic lights and debris. Those traveling are urged to do so with caution. Roadway conditions can change quickly.
Officials warn anyone encountering flooded roads to “turn around, don’t drown” and move to higher ground if possible. Most flood deaths occur inside vehicles. No one should try to walk or drive through flooded waters.
Municipalities such as Sunset Hills and Fenton have issued road closures due to flooding. In Sunset Hills, Rott Road and West Watson Road are closed from Pagada Parkway to Weber Hill Road due to high water. Sunset Hills officials say to remain alert for potentially continually rising water on West Watson south of Weber Hill.
In Fenton, Horan Road at Larkin Williams Road is closed due to river flooding.
A flood watch has been issued until 7 a.m. Wednesday for as far north as Quincy, Illinois, west along Interstate 70 to Columbia, past Centerville in the south, and east along Interstate 64 past Nashville, Illinois. Recent heavy rain across the Midwest combined with today’s rainfall could prolong or worsen mainstem river flooding.
The National Weather Service will issue an updated briefing at 5 a.m. Wednesday.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated with new and additional information.