Flood Warning Issued for Fairfield and Licking Counties Near Buckeye Lake

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Flood Warning for the South Fork Licking River near I-70 near Buckeye Lake. This alert was issued at 7:09 AM EST on February 20 and remains in effect until 10:00 PM EST this evening.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts Fairfield and Licking counties in Ohio. The primary area of concern is the South Fork Licking River near the Interstate 70 corridor in the vicinity of Buckeye Lake.

What You Should Do

Residents and motorists are advised to avoid flooded areas. The National Weather Service reminds the public to “Turn around, don’t drown” when encountering flooded roads, noting that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Motorists should seek alternate routes if they encounter water on roadways.

Expected Conditions

Minor flooding is forecast for the region. As of 6:45 AM EST Friday, the river stage was measured at 879.2 feet. The river is expected to rise above the flood stage of 880.0 feet, reaching a predicted crest of 880.1 feet.

At these levels, water is expected to extend onto the 129A exit ramp from eastbound Interstate 70 to Route 79 near Buckeye Lake.

Timeline

• Onset: The river is expected to rise above flood stage late Friday morning.
• Crest: A crest of 880.1 feet is anticipated late Friday morning.
• Recession: The river is forecast to fall below flood stage late this afternoon.
• Expiration: The official Flood Warning remains in effect until 10:00 PM EST.