An unwelcome visitor has returned to Lawrence County, but experts say this time the visitor won’t wear out its welcome.

Tuesday, March 26, 2002

An unwelcome visitor has returned to Lawrence County, but experts say this time the visitor won’t wear out its welcome.

The National Weather Service has issued a forecast that includes an 80-percent chance of rain today, with a gradual clearing and cooling trend this evening. Meteorologist Chris Leonardi said, so far, there has been between four- and eight-tenths of an inch of rain in the last 12 hours. Before the rain ends, the area may receive as much and 1.1 to 1.2 inches.

"Right now the bulk of precipitation is staying right along the Ohio River," Leonardi said. "But we don’t expect to see anything as bad as last week."

Four inches of rain fell early last week, resulting in flash flooding from which some residents are still recovering. While the Ohio River crested in the Ashland, Ky./Ironton area Friday, many of the area’s creeks and streams are still swollen.

The extended forecast calls for dry days and a cooling trend.