WICHITA, KS – A Flash Flood Emergency has been declared for portions of south-central Kansas, including Wichita, El Dorado, and surrounding areas, as torrential rainfall continues to overwhelm roadways and urban infrastructure.

The National Weather Service has issued multiple Flash Flood Warnings, with emergency evacuations already underway in El Dorado due to rapidly rising waters.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid all flooded roads and seek alternate routes.

Numerous reports have come in over the past hour of vehicles stalled or stranded in high water across multiple cities, including Valley Center, Goddard, Park City, and Wichita itself.

In many locations, road markings are no longer visible, raising concerns that some roads may be compromised or completely washed out beneath the floodwaters.

Although a brief lull in rainfall was observed around 3:00 p.m., meteorologists warn that additional heavy rain is expected to impact the region over the next few hours as storms continue to move eastward.

Officials emphasize the importance of safety during these conditions:

“Turn around, don’t drown.”
If you encounter water-covered roads, do not attempt to drive through them. Floodwaters may conceal collapsed pavement, strong currents, or deep washouts that pose life-threatening risks.

Residents in affected areas are strongly encouraged to remain indoors, monitor local weather updates, and follow any instructions issued by emergency management personnel.

This is a developing weather emergency.

Stay tuned for real-time updates from the National Weather Service, local authorities, and emergency broadcast channels.