New rainfall will have nowhere to go

This map indicates potential flooding depending on the rain events in the next few days (click on the map to enlarge). The yellow indicates the current 100-year floodplain. The red is the proposed 100-year floodplain if there is a major rain event over the next few days with the current circumstances. Residents in those areas should prepare for flooding. Map courtesy of the City of Hutchinson.

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson has several storm sewer outfalls that are completely submerged because of flooding to the Arkansas River.

The current forecast predicts 3.5 inches of rain to fall in Hutchinson between Thursday and Saturday morning. For a small portion of the city, there is nowhere for additional rain to go.

City officials say they are installing additional pumps in high-risk areas to lessen the impact, however, this will not mitigate the flooding completely.

The city has delivered a pile of sand and a pallet of empty sandbags to Avenue C between Main and Walnut for use by Hutchinson residents.

A volunteer will be there to hand out empty sandbags. When possible, the volunteer will assist those not able to fill the sandbags themselves.

Officials advise residents to bring a shovel and help themselves to the sand.

CLICK HERE FOR THE INTERACTIVE FLOODPLAIN MAP