Illinois flood watches
There are no flood watches in Illinois right now. The last one was issued on October 1, 2026.
Heavy rain or snowmelt could cause flooding or flash flooding. Be ready to act if a warning is issued.
Updated from the National Weather Service · lists refresh hourly; the live map loads current alerts directly from the NWS
Active flood watches in Illinois
None right now. Other active alerts in Illinois: none.
Flood Watches in Illinois by year
Illinois averaged 41.6 flood watches per year from 2016 to 2025, and has had 64 so far in 2026. The most recent was issued on October 1, 2026.
Counties with the most flood watches
| County | 2016–2025 |
|---|---|
| Massac County | 68 |
| Pope County | 66 |
| Alexander County | 66 |
| Johnson County | 66 |
| Saline County | 65 |
| Pulaski County | 64 |
| Gallatin County | 63 |
| Union County | 62 |
| Hardin County | 62 |
| Williamson County | 61 |
What a flood watch means
A flood watch means conditions are favorable for flooding, including flash flooding, in and near the watch area. Watches are issued ahead of heavy-rain events such as slow-moving storms, tropical systems and atmospheric rivers, often 12 to 48 hours in advance.
More about flood watches and the national map →
What to do
- Know whether your home, school or commute is in a flood-prone area.
- Clear gutters and storm drains near your home if it is safe.
- Plan a route to higher ground and keep your phone charged.
More Illinois alerts
- Tornado Warnings
- Tornado Watches
- Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Flood Warnings
- Winter Storm Warnings
- Winter Storm Watches
- Winter Weather Advisories
- Cold Weather Advisories
- Freeze Warnings
- Frost Advisories
- Heat Advisories
- Extreme Heat Warnings
- High Wind Warnings
- Wind Advisories
- Red Flag Warnings
- Dense Fog Advisories
- All Illinois alerts