April Fool’s Day may have just passed but the incoming weather threat is no joke. The severe thunderstorms and high winds on April 2 was just the beginning of a long, rainy weekend.
Forecasts from the National Weather Service (NWS) call for 6-10 inches of rainfall through Sunday afternoon. The NWS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predict the Ohio River could rise to 43.8 feet by Wednesday, April 9, causing severe flooding in downtown Evansville. 43.8 feet will surpass the 42 foot threshold for the “minor flooding” category. Flooding could specifically impact the Riverside Drive and Ohio Street areas downtown.
Sandbags were given out to Evansville locals on Wednesday, April 2 by Mulzer Crushed Stone, Inc. in partnership with Evansville-Vanderburgh County EMA. The Shield confirmed that Evansville residents will be able to fill sandbags at Mulzer until the water recedes. According to the company, a limited number of sandbags were provided, but anyone who is hoping for extra protection, can fill their own bags at the west end entrance (nearest pigeon creek) of Mulzer. The USI campus is not within a direct threat of severe flooding, but this could benefit commuter students who live in the downtown area.
In a statement from USI Housing and Residence Life (HRL), they warned students that many roads in the Evansville area may be barricaded due to flooding. “Do not drive through flooded roads. Turn around, don’t drown,” HRL advised.
The rain forecast shows non-stop rain during class hours for the rest of the week. An umbrella will be handy, but USI also offers shuttle rides on class days. The shuttles operate beginning at 7:00 a.m. until the last ride at 9:30 p.m. (5:00 p.m. on Fridays).
