Flash Flood — Republic, Kansas

2003-06-22 to 2003-06-23 · near Republic, Republic, Kansas

Event narrative

Thunderstorms persisted over north and west parts of Republic county the night of the 22nd. Rainfall amounts in excess of 12 inches were reported in some areas. The resulting runoff caused flash flooding. Water was 3 to 4 feet deep on some roadways and vehicles were washed off roadways and rescue efforts made of the vehicles occupants. Several roads were completely washed out. Two homes were destroyed by the floodwaters. Deer and cattle were reported swimming. Some people were stranded in homes and in need of rescue. Fields were flooded and there was severe crop damage. The runoff caused the Republican River to rise quickly and overflow. It was reported to be 1 mile wide in places. The river crested at 15 feet at Scandia early in the morning of the 23rd. Flood stage is 10 feet.

Wider weather episode

Thunderstorms developed over Republic county the evening of the 22nd and persisted into the early morning hours of the 23rd. Numerous reports of large hail and damaging winds along with several tornadoes (discussed separately) were the result. The persistance of the thunderstorms in the same location led to flash flooding in Republic County as well as the Republican River to flood and do considerable crop damage.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5364419. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.