Flash flood watch canceled; more hazardous weather in forecast

Douglas and surrounding counties are no longer in the flash flood watch that was set by the National Weather Service Wednesday night.

The NWS has posted a hazardous weather outlook for Douglas County, and there is a 30 percent chance for thunderstorms Thursday evening. According to this NWS outlook, storms south of Interstate 70 could be most severe, with a potential for large hail, damaging winds and isolated tornadoes.

More heavy rainfall is expected overnight, with thunderstorms most likely after 3 a.m. Friday.

According to the NWS, Lawrence has experienced less than an inch of precipitation in the past 24 hours.

Jillian Rodrigue, assistant director with Douglas County Emergency Management, said she has been watching the levels of the Kansas River for the past several days because of weather forecasts.

According to the NWS, the current level for the Kansas River in Lawrence is about 14 feet. A level between 15 and 18 feet indicates that the river is at a stage near flooding.

“There is potential flooding as rain continues,” Rodrigue said. “The second round of rain might make the situation a little worse. We’ll make sure we’re aware of it and to close any roads if we need to.”