Flooding is a concern once again, less than one week after the area received heavy rains that turned parts of Seminole County into small lakes and rivers.

On Monday, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Norman issued a flood watch for much of Oklahoma including Seminole County. The watch will remain in effect until 1 a.m. Wednesday, May 7.

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain,” the advisory states.

On top of the rain threat, Lake Thunderbird began releasing water on Sunday, which could affect residents who live along Little River, which runs through the southern part of Seminole County.

According to the NWS, severe weather is possible today (Tuesday), most likely between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Flood Safety Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters. People underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream. Many of these drownings are preventable. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters.