Wed Apr 02 10:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Heartland Faces High Risk of Severe Weather, Widespread Flooding
**CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO [Date]** – The Heartland is bracing for a significant severe weather event, with the Storm Prediction Center issuing a level 4 and 5 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms today. KFVS12 has declared a First Alert Action Day.
The National Weather Service warns of a high threat of large hail, damaging winds, and several long-track tornadoes, beginning in western counties as early as this afternoon and moving eastward into the evening. The severe weather threat is expected to subside by 10 p.m. at the latest. A wind advisory is also in effect, with winds reaching 20-30 mph and gusts up to 50 mph.
However, the more significant concern may be widespread and potentially devastating flooding. Chief Meteorologist Grant Dade forecasts over 10 inches of rain across much of the region by early Sunday morning. An active frontal boundary will linger, bringing repeated periods of showers and thunderstorms through the weekend. While strong storms remain a threat, the primary concern is the heavy rainfall leading to significant flash flooding.
Authorities are urging residents near rivers, streams, and low-lying areas in southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and northwestern Tennessee to take precautions. All campgrounds along area rivers are expected to flood, and residents in vulnerable areas should relocate to higher ground if flooding begins. Ozark rivers and streams will experience significant flooding, with the situation expected to last for several days even after rainfall subsides.
KFVS12 urges residents to monitor weather updates closely via the KFVS12 First Alert Weather app and stay tuned to their broadcasts for the latest information.
First Piper 