The National Weather Service is warning of localized flooding in the Lyndon, Kan., area Wednesday, and possible flash flooding across Osage, Franklin and Coffey counties at mid day.
The NWS flood warning is for Salt Creek at the south edge of Lyndon, which was approaching flood stage of 10 feet as of 6:46 a.m. today, Oct. 25, 2023, when the warning was issued. Minor flooding is forecast with flood effects expected to end by Thursday morning.
NWS reports that at a flood stage of 10 feet, Salt Creek is bank full and minor lowland flooding begins in a farm field west of the U.S. Highway 75 bridge, near the south Lyndon city limit. At 14.3 feet, water overflows the north bank of the creek and flows into fields north of Salt Creek east of the U.S. 75 bridge. At 16.0 feet, South Berryton Road floods three miles east of Lyndon. The creek is expected to rise above flood stage of 10 feet this morning, and crest at 14.5 feet this afternoon. It is forecast to fall below flood stage this evening.
Tuesday’s overnight rain, estimated at three to nine inches locally, has also resulted in NWS issuing a flash flood warning for Osage County, northwestern Coffey County, northwestern Franklin, which is in effect this morning until 10:30 a.m.
At 6:24 a.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area, with between three and nine inches of rain having fallen overnight. At the time of the warning, flash flooding was ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Flash flooding can occur on small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses, and other poor drainage and low-lying areas.
NWS warns of areas on Interstate 35 between mile markers 144 and 153, and 169 and 181, which are known to flash flood. Other locations that can experience flash flooding include Ottawa, Osage City, Lyndon, Centropolis, Lebo, Pomona, Quenemo, Melvern, Reading, Olivet, Pomona Lake And Melvern Lake.
NWS warns that most flooding related deaths occur in vehicles and drivers should heed the saying, “Turn around, don’t drown” when encountering flooded roads. Drivers are advised to be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.
Information from NWS Topeka.
