The National Weather Service in Chicago has issued a Flood Warning covering eight areas across four states, in effect from 9:12 PM CDT on September 26 until 1:00 PM CDT on September 28. The affected areas are Lake, Pike, and Calhoun counties in Illinois; Pike County in Missouri; Clinton and Scott counties in Iowa; and Lake and Volusia counties in Florida.
A Flood Warning means flooding is already occurring or is imminent — this is a step above a Flood Watch, which only means conditions are favorable. Residents in the warned areas may notice rising water on rivers, creeks, and low-lying roads, standing water in fields and yards, and some road closures where water covers pavement.
In the Midwest, much of this warning covers counties along the Mississippi and Illinois river corridors, where heavy recent rain can push water levels above flood stage. In Florida, Lake and Volusia counties — inland parts of central Florida — are prone to slow-draining floodwaters after prolonged downpours.
What to keep in mind
Never drive through flooded roads. Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and a foot of water can float most vehicles. Turn around, don’t drown. Stay away from riverbanks and flooded areas — banks can be unstable and currents deceptively fast. Have a way to receive alerts overnight, such as a NOAA weather radio or phone alerts, since flooding can worsen quickly after dark. If you live in a low-lying or flood-prone spot, move vehicles and valuables to higher ground and be ready to leave if water rises toward your home.
This warning remains in effect through early afternoon on September 28, though it may be extended if water levels stay high. Check local conditions before traveling in the affected counties.
Data for this alert comes from the National Weather Service (NWS Chicago, IL).
Frequently Asked Questions
Which counties are under this Flood Warning?
Eight areas are covered: Lake, Pike, and Calhoun counties in Illinois; Pike County in Missouri; Clinton and Scott counties in Iowa; and Lake and Volusia counties in Florida.
How long will this Flood Warning last?
The warning runs until 1:00 PM CDT on September 28. It could be extended if rivers and low-lying areas remain above flood stage.
What should I do right now if I'm in one of these areas?
Avoid driving on flooded roads, keep away from riverbanks and fast-moving water, and move valuables and vehicles to higher ground if you're in a flood-prone spot. Keep phone alerts on so you receive any overnight updates.
What's the difference between a Flood Warning and a Flood Watch?
A Watch means flooding is possible; a Warning means flooding is happening now or about to happen. A Warning calls for immediate caution, especially around roads and waterways.
Keep tracking this:
Source: National Weather Service (NWS)
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Sky & Solar Conditions at the Time
Moon: Full Moon (100% illuminated), in Aries.
Notable planetary angles: Moon conjunct Saturn (4°).
Concurrent space weather: planetary Kp index 3.3; strongest recent solar flare: nothing notable.
This is a factual snapshot, not a claim of cause and effect – researchers are divided on whether lunar, planetary or solar factors influence seismic or weather activity. It’s included so readers can track the pattern for themselves over time.
