Because of heavy rains this week, flooding is now forecasted with the Conecuh and Escambia rivers, the National Weather Service is reporting.

NWS’s spring flood outlook map shows a number of locations in South Alabama near flood stage. The Conecuh is expected to be near flood stage in Brewton. Minor flooding of the Escambia River is expected near Flomaton.

The latest observation at the Conecuh, which was conducted Thursday night, put the waterway at 25.4 feet. Flood stage is 27 feet.

If calculations hold true, the river will reach minor flooding stage by Saturday evening. Weather and emergency officials are monitoring the situation.

David Adams, Escambia County Emergency Management Agency director, said Friday that he doesn’t feel the rising waters will pose an issue to residents.

“There are a few that are very near the river and in the lower areas of the flood plain that may be very close to having issues, but I think they will still have a little bit of breathing room,” Adams said.

However, weather officials said they will continue to monitor the situation.

Historical data shows that the highest crest on record occurred on March 15, 1929, when it reached 46.60 feet. The most recent flood on record occurred on March 21, 1990, when the river reached 35.94 feet.

The latest observation of the Escambia River was conducted Thursday night, when the level already nearly an inch over the 17-foot flood level. The river is expected to keep rising before cresting at 19.9 feet sometime Sunday night.

To monitor the water levels of area waterways, visit the National Weather Service website by clicking here.