Flood warning issued in Sedgwick, Butler counties as heavy rain continues to fall
The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a flood warning for Sedgwick and Butler counties until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesday.
Areas that could experience flooding include Wichita, Derby, El Dorado, Andover, Haysville, Augusta, Park City, Valley Center, Bel Aire, Mulvane, Goddard, Rose hill, Maize, Clearwater, Cheney, Douglass, Sedgwick, Towanda, Colwich and Benton.
The warning comes as heavy rain continues to drop in parts of south-central Kansas. A half-inch to an inch and a half of rain has fallen in some areas and an additional inch of rain is possible later tonight.
The report says areas in southeast Kansas could see between 2 to 3 inches. Areas affected include Allen, Chautauqua, Elk Labette, Montgomery, Neosho and Wilson counties.
City of Wichita water staff have unclogged over 80 storm drains, city spokesperson Megan Lovely said by email. Clogs happen when yard debris and leaves wash into the drains.
City storm water crews were on standby on Wednesday and will remain overnight, Lovely said.
Drivers are advised not to drive into flooded areas or go around barricades. Nearly two feet of water will carry most vehicles away, a weather report said.