A flash flood watch remains in effect for Kenton County through Wednesday morning, Aug. 12, with the National Weather Service warning that repeated rounds of thunderstorms could dump heavy rain on Fort Mitchell, Crestview Hills, Edgewood, Villa Hills, Crescent Springs, Lakeside Park and Fort Wright.
The NWS Wilmington, Ohio, office issued the watch continuation at 2:09 a.m. Tuesday, naming Kenton County among eight Kentucky counties in the flood watch area. Boone and Campbell counties are also covered.
Multiple storm cells are expected to track over the same locations through Tuesday night, according to the watch text, creating conditions ripe for flash flooding along rivers, creeks, streams and low-lying roads.
NWS Wilmington OH posted on X Monday that the region faces a very active pattern with high uncertainty regarding storm timing, recommending residents check radar frequently before heading out.
A slow-moving front interacting with tropical moisture is driving the pattern across the broader Ohio Valley, according to CNN. Regional rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour are possible in the most intense downpours, with storm totals potentially reaching 6 inches or more in areas hit on multiple days.
What residents should do
The NWS advises people in the watch area to be prepared for immediate action if heavy rains develop or a flash flood warning is issued. Specific guidance includes:
- Avoid low-lying areas and use caution near highway dips and underpasses.
- Do not drive through flooded roads. Even shallow water can sweep a vehicle off the road.
- Monitor conditions if you live near rivers, creeks or streams.
- Have multiple ways to receive weather updates.
Sign up for CodeRED alerts
Kenton County residents can register for free emergency notifications through the CodeRED system, which delivers high-speed alerts by phone, text or email during severe weather and other emergencies.
