The Situation:
St. Louis has experienced record level of rainfall over the past week.
On 26 July, a thunderstorm brought heavy rains resulting in a flash flood emergency warning of a "life-threatening situation." Over 9” of rain fell from 25-26 July, accounting for about 25% of St. Louis’s average yearly rainfall. This was a record rainfall beating out the previous on from August 1915 with 7.02” inches of rain. One person was confirmed dead and 100 others were rescued after the flash flood.
On 28 July, another thunderstorm system brought heavy rain and flash flooding to the St. Louis area. Several inches of rain fell in just an hour in several portions of the area, flooding interstates and highways, and leaving commuters stranded in their vehicles.
With the excessive amount of rain, flash flooding in the St. Louis area is probable. The area is expecting more storms from 30-31 July.
Possible Effects:
Heavy rainfall could lead to flooding along streams, rivers and roadways
Downed trees, hindering rescue/recovery efforts
Cancelled, delayed, or rerouted flights
Closed roads and/or detours
Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions, especially on secondary and rural roadways
Reduced visibility, especially during periods of heavy rainfall
Power outages in homes and places of work
Mitigating Measures to Apply:
Check with the destination (i.e. accommodations, work sites, etc.) to ensure they are open and operating
Avoid traveling through flooded areas
Monitor local news and weather media for updates
Allow extra time for travel to and from the destination and airport
Use extreme caution when traveling over bridges and during times of excessive rainfall
Keep extra bottled water in lodging
Keep electronics charged and maintain contact with a trusted person
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless Disclaimer: LSDS™ gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS™ (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.