Flood watch issued for area counties

Bollinger, Cape Girardeau and Scott counties are included in the flood watch starting this afternoon, according to a statement issued by the National Weather Service office in Paducah, Ky.

Heavy, widespread rainfall was predicted to start late Sunday night and last 24 hours, the statement said.

The weather service said one to three inches of rain "with locally higher amounts" is anticipated.

A flood watch indicates potential flooding in low-lying areas. People living in areas prone to flooding should monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take action.

Other counties affected include Butler, New Madrid, Mississippi, Perry, Stoddard and Wayne in Missouri and Union and Alexander counties in Illinois.