Flood watch issued in Eaton, Ingham, Calhoun counties as rain threatens to return overnight

LANSING — As rain threatens to return Sunday night, the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for parts of south central and southwest Michigan. 

The flood watch is in effect from 11:30 a.m. Sunday through 8 p.m. Monday. 

Impacted counties include: Eaton, Ingham, Calhoun, Jackson, Allegan, Barry, Kalamazoo and Van Buren. 

Recent heavy rain has left much of the area prone to flooding. Occasional thunderstorms are expected through Monday, some of which may include heavy rain that could top an inch per hour. 

Many roads in Eaton County were still closed from flooding after heavy rains last week. Drivers can see which roads are closed or flooded on Eaton County's traffic and crashes map online. 

Sunday's weather will remain warm and sunny, with a high near 79, until showers and thunderstorms roll in at about 8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Showers are predicted to continue until about 2 a.m. Monday. 

The chance of rain is about 70% Sunday night. 

Monday will again be warm, with a high near 81, but the rain won't stay away for long. Showers and thunderstorms are predicted to be back after 2 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. 

That night, there's a chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2 a.m., then a slight chance of showers after that. 

The National Weather Service predicts southern Michigan will stay clear of rain for the rest of the week — knock on wood — with highs in the low to mid 80s. 

Contact reporter Kara Berg at 517-377-1113 or kberg@lsj.com. Follow her on Twitter @karaberg95.