(CENTRALIA, IL) — A flood warning remains in effect for most of our listening area through this afternoon. A prolonged period of heavy rainfall Monday led to flooding across the warned area. Although rain was expected to end Monday night, flood waters will be slow to recede. Some locations that will experience flooding include Centralia, Salem, and Breese. Interstate 57 in Illinois between exits 109 and 127, and Interstate 64 in Illinois between exits 9 and 61 are also likely to experience flooding. U.S. Highway 51 south of Vandalia was closed last night due to flooding from breaks in the levees on the Kaskaskia River. For the second time in 24 hours, rising water forced U.S. Route 50 in Effingham County to be closed at the Watson “Y” south to U.S. Route 50 in Flora. The persistent rain again caused the water to rise above safe levels, and truck travel was diverted west from Flora on Route 50 to Salem. This warning also includes Carlyle Lake Recreational Area. A flood warning means that flooding is imminent or has been reported. Stream rises will be slow and flash flooding is not expected. However, all interested parties should take necessary precautions immediately. In Jefferson County, a flash flood watch has been cancelled. Water may be slow to recede due to high river levels across the region. Flash flooding is no longer expected, however flooding in and near most rivers will continue for several days.