In Kentucky, where I live, most rivers, creeks, streams and lakes are filled to capacity and beyond. Rain continues to fall. A midnight storm ripped through my area last night, toppling trees and rattling nerves. More is predicted tonight. The Ohio River, meanwhile, is nearing record levels and isn’t expected to crest for another week.
The predicted river crest at Cairo, Ill., which is the point where the Ohio River enters the Mississippi, is 60 feet – a staggering number to those familiar with Ohio and Mississippi River gauges.
Anyone on the water for any reason should use extreme caution. Swollen streams are dangerous and deadly. (The creek pictured is normally wadeable.) Stay away from them. An automobile is no match for six inches of flood water pouring across a highway. Flooded lakes hide their own dangers.
Stay safe. Fishing can wait.
The Outdoor Notebook 