July 17, 2024: Branson, Missouri, faced severe flash flooding on Wednesday morning, forcing evacuations and causing significant infrastructure damage after months of rain fell within just a few hours. This sudden deluge has left the community reeling and authorities scrambling to respond.
The National Weather Service issued a rare flash flood emergency for around 5,000 residents in Yellville and surrounding Marion County after the region received an extraordinary 6 to 11 inches of rain in just four to five hours. Typically, this area receives only 3.5 to 4 inches of rain throughout the entire month of July.
Northern Arkansas and southern Missouri were hit particularly hard, with relentless downpours throughout the morning. Branson, home to approximately 14,000 people, recorded seven inches of rain in less than six hours—a once-in-1,000-year rainfall rate. In nearby Hollister, Missouri, Turkey Creek rose a staggering 12 feet within two hours, further exacerbating the situation.
The flash flooding caused severe damage to several roads in the Branson area. Branson Fire Department reported that the heavy rain had minimal impact on Table Rock Lake. The U.S. Corps of Engineers officials confirmed that no changes are expected in the dam flow into Lake Taneycomo.
Several roads around Branson and Hollister were heavily impacted. While most roads are expected to reopen by the evening, Fall Creek Road remains closed. Additionally, Lake Shore Drive and Silver Creek Road suffered significant damage, with reopening anticipated by Wednesday night or Thursday morning at the earliest.
The intense rainfall also forced the evacuation of campgrounds around Lake Taneycomo, transforming a peaceful creek into a rapid torrent. Despite the widespread damage, there have been no reports of injuries. Lakeshore Drive sustained considerable damage in Taney County, with storm debris exposing a sewer line.