Heavy rainfall is creating dangerous flooding conditions across central Illinois — even in areas that don’t typically see high water.

Emergency officials are urging residents to stay alert as creeks, ditches, and low-lying roadways are quickly filling up. What makes this situation especially dangerous is that flooding is occurring in places drivers and homeowners may not expect.

Safety experts, including the National Weather Service, stress one key message: Turn around, don’t drown. Just a few inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, and a foot of water can carry away most vehicles.

Drivers are being warned not to attempt to cross flooded roadways, especially at night when it’s harder to judge depth. In addition, residents should avoid walking near drainage areas, culverts, and swollen streams, where water can move quickly and unpredictably.

If flooding threatens your home, officials recommend moving to higher ground immediately and avoiding basements where water can rise rapidly.

With more rain possible, conditions could change quickly throughout the day. Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and have a plan in place in case waters continue to rise.