CINCINNATI — We have a lot of rain forecasted over the next several days which can lead to flooding, especially in low lying areas. Cincinnati officials are prepping for what they say could be one of the top ten worst rain events in the city’s history.

It’s spring in Ohio, which also means severe weather season. And in southwest Ohio, that also means flooding season, especially close to the Ohio River. With upwards of half a foot of rain expected over the next several days, emergency workers in Cincinnati are cautioning residents of upcoming flash flooding.

It’s a common occurrence, high waters in southwest Ohio this time of year. But this event could be one of the worst this part of the state has seen in a long time.

Water will continue to rise in the Ohio River (Spectrum News 1/Katie Kapusta)

“This is going to be one of the top 10 rain incidents for historical data shows us — about one of the top ten rain events," assistant fire chief Matt Flagler said. "So we think it's something to take very seriously.”

That’s why Assistant Chief Flagler and his team are keeping an eye on the forecast.

Assistant Fire Chief Matt Flagler radios to his boat crew on the Ohio River (Spectrum News 1/Katie Kapusta)

“Our city has a pretty elaborate flood plan," Asst Chief Flagler said. "This is a river city, so we're used to flooding in the rivers. But our real concern is around flash flooding in some of our creeks or low lying areas. So we spent a lot of time making sure that we have all our equipment ready.”

Some of that equipment includes fire rescue boats used on the Ohio River as well as low lying areas for water rescues.

“We maintain about seven boats that always have trained personnel on duty, ready to go as part of our firefighting operation," he said. "The boat behind me is one of our most well-equipped. That has the kind of tools and equipment that we can use to rescue people from the river.”

Rescue fire boats will be at the ready for any water rescues due to high water (Spectrum News 1/Katie Kapusta)

The main concern for the fire department and other emergency personnel is flash flooding, which Flagler reminds us can happen almost anywhere, so it’s important to stay weather aware.

“If you see water that's up over the roadway, please don't drive into that water," he said. "Even though it looks safe, it doesn't look like it's moving, just a few inches of water is enough to move a entire car.”

For City of Cincinnati residents, you can text “Cincy Alert” to 77295 to receive alerts such as notifications of flash flood warnings in your area.