A Flood Warning has been issued for the Deep Fork River near Beggs, with the National Weather Service predicting minor flooding to begin Tuesday evening and continue through early Friday morning.

According to the latest report from the National Weather Service in Tulsa, the river was measured at 14.5 feet at 1:15 a.m. Monday, but is expected to rise steadily throughout the next 48 hours. The flood stage is 18.0 feet, and forecasters anticipate the river will reach a crest of 19.4 feet by Wednesday evening.

While the forecasted flooding is expected to be minor, it can still impact low-lying areas. Officials are especially concerned about Webster Road north of the gauge site, which becomes impassable at around 19 feet. Residents should avoid driving through high water and make alternate travel plans where necessary.

— Impacted Area

• Deep Fork River near Beggs

• Low-lying agricultural land near the river is likely to experience minor flooding

• Webster Road, a known trouble spot during elevated river levels, is expected to become impassable — Timeline

• Tuesday evening: River expected to exceed 18.0-foot flood stage

• Wednesday evening: Predicted crest at 19.4 feet

• Early Friday morning: River forecast to fall back below flood stage – Okmulgee County Emergency Management is urging residents to monitor local forecasts, remain cautious near the river and never drive through flooded roadways. “It only takes a few inches of water to cause a vehicle to lose control or be swept off the road,” Moore emphasized.

For the latest flood safety tips and alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at www. weather.gov/safety/ flood or follow Okmulgee County Emergency Management updates on social media.

Officials will continue to monitor river levels and provide updates if conditions worsen or change.

Stay informed. Stay safe. And when in doubt, turn around don’t drown.