Flood Watch issued for parts of Illinois and Indiana

A Flood Watch is in effect for parts of eastern Illinois and northwest Indiana as thunderstorms are expected to deliver 1 to 3 inches of rain on already saturated ground. In Illinois, the watch covers Livingston, Ford, and Iroquois counties through 1 a.m. CDT Thursday, affecting communities such as Watseka, Pontiac, and Paxton.

In Indiana, the watch includes Newton, Jasper, and Benton counties until 2 a.m. EDT, as well as areas including Rensselaer, Kentland, and Morocco. Forecasters warn that additional rainfall could worsen existing flooding, push rivers higher, and potentially lead to flash flooding where heavy storms repeatedly cross the same areas.

In north-central Indiana, the White River remains at the action stage. Forecasters note that the saturated soil increases runoff into streets, drainage areas, and streams, which could cause waterways to overflow and submerge low-lying roads. There is also a possibility of isolated severe weather, including damaging winds and hail.