Flash Flood — Jefferson, Missouri

2013-04-18 · near De Soto Arpt, Jefferson, Missouri

Event narrative

Up to five inches of rain fell in a 24 hour period. This caused flash flooding on Joachim Creek in DeSoto. The creek rose quickly and numerous roads on the east side of town were flooded. The water rose high enough that the fire station on East Miller Street had over a foot of water in it throughout the offices and engine room. About 125 homes were affected by the flash flooding. Also, an 80 year old woman drove into the flood waters on Veterans Drive. Despite attempts by emergency workers to block the car, it plunged into the rushing creek with the woman inside. Several hours later the water receded enough for the emergency workers to find her body in the vehicle a little ways downstream.

Wider weather episode

Widespread showers and thunderstorms developed ahead of a weather system. Significant rainfall, as well as tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail occurred with the stronger storms.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (38.1590, -90.5473)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 446122. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.