Update 3:44 p.m.: Flash Flood Warning, Again
Louisville is under a flash flood warning until 5:45 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service said.
Heavy rainfall is now forecast for the area on Friday afternoon. The flash flood warning also includes northern Bullitt, southern Oldham, western Shelby, northwestern Spencer, southern Clark, southern Floyd and Harrison County in Indiana.
The National Weather Service is warning of "excessive runoff" from the rain, causing flooding on streams, highways, streets, underpasses and urban areas.
Again, authorities are cautioning motorists to avoid water-covered roads.
Also, Louisville and the surrounding area are under a tornado watch until 10 p.m. Friday.
Update 12:49 p.m.: What May Be Coming Later
The heavy overnight rain hit the southern part of Louisville hardest, Mayor Greg Fischer said. And even as the rain stops, as expected, on Friday afternoon, Louisville may still have to contend with more weather issues.
Storms are possible in the Louisville area later Friday, potentially bringing hail, winds and even isolated tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service. Wind gusts outside the storm may be as strong as 40 miles per hour.
"There will still be some drama with the weather as we go about the day," Fischer said in a late morning update on the weather.
Road closures remain in parts of the Louisville area, and city officials noted that TARC routes may be altered.
Update 10:28 a.m.: Flash Flood Warning Extended
As much as seven inches of rain fell overnight through Friday morning in the Louisville area, according to the National Weather Service.
And more rain is on the way—perhaps one or two inches. Thunderstorms are possible.
Through 8 a.m., Louisville authorities rescued 163 people because of flooding, MetroSafe said. Fifty-nine motorists were stranded.
The flash flood warning for Louisville, northern Bullitt and southern Floyd issued Friday morning has been extended to 2 p.m.
Updated 7:55 a.m.: JCPS Closed
Jefferson County Public Schools are now closed Friday, the school district announced.
Earlier: Authorities are warning Louisville area motorists to avoid water-covered roadways Friday morning following early morning downpours.
Several Louisville area roadways are blocked Friday morning because of flooding. Authorities have responded to 116 water rescues Friday, and 56 motorists have been reported stranded, according to MetroSafe.
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning until 8 a.m. for Jefferson County, northern Bullitt County and Floyd County in Indiana.
Jefferson County Public Schools are on a two-hour delay Friday, and Bullitt County Public Schools are closed. The University of Louisville is operating on a delay, canceling all classes that begin before 10 a.m.