Okmulgee County Emergency Management is closely monitoring rising water levels along the Deep Fork River, as the river is forecast to crest at 23 feet near Webster Road by Saturday, signaling the potential for moderate flooding. According to Emergency Management Director Jeffrey Moore, the river is currently rising at a rate of 0.20 inches per hour. Flood stage at this location is 18 feet, and if the forecast holds steady – without additional rainfall – the flooding should primarily impact agricultural areas, with the potential for some county road closures.

Residents are urged to be prepared in the event more rain comes or the forecast changes.

Moore noted that earlier this year, the Deep Fork River rose as high as 27 feet. “It’s Oklahoma – and that can change,” he added, emphasizing the need for residents to remain vigilant and stay updated on weather alerts.

• Bixby Road, which was closed due to rising waters around Hectorville Road, both north and south of the area, was reopened Thursday to traffic.

• Dentonville Road has reopened after previous flooding conditions.

Residents are urged to avoid flooded roadways, obey all barricades and monitor official sources for the latest weather and road updates. Okmulgee County Emergency Management regularly updates their Facebook page with information.