Weather
Multiple Vehicles Stalled on Flooded Roads in Wichita, Flash Flood Emergency Declared for Surrounding Areas
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.
At least three people have died and 12 others were injured after a powerful tornado tore through Union City, Michigan, on Friday, according to the Branch County Sheriff’s Office.
The storm caused widespread destruction as it moved through residential neighborhoods, leaving homes heavily damaged or destroyed and debris scattered across the community.
Emergency officials said three of the injured victims were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment, while others were treated for various injuries.
“Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident,” the Branch County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement as emergency crews continued search, rescue, and recovery operations across the affected area.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid traveling to or through impacted neighborhoods so first responders can safely conduct emergency response efforts.
Deputies also warned the public to take several important safety precautions while recovery operations remain underway.
Residents are advised to:
- Stay away from damaged or unstable structures, including buildings marked by emergency personnel.
- Avoid downed power lines, fallen trees, and scattered debris, which may pose serious hazards.
- Refrain from entering restricted or closed areas where crews are actively working.
Officials also warned that additional severe weather could develop overnight Friday into Saturday, urging residents to remain weather-aware and seek shelter immediately if new warnings are issued.
Authorities encouraged the public to continue monitoring local forecasts and emergency alerts for updated information.
The storm has also caused power outages, road closures, and disruptions to cellular and internet service in some areas.
Emergency crews, utility workers, and local officials are currently working to assess the extent of the damage, restore essential services, and clear roadways.
Further updates are expected to be released as officials gather more information about the storm’s impact and ongoing recovery efforts.