Flood warning issued as Barton River rises

NEWPORT — The National Weather Service in Burlington issued a flood warning for the Barton River in Coventry.

At this point the warning is in effect until Wednesday evening. Officials say at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, the stage was 7.9 feet, with a flood stage being 8.0 feet.

The river is expected to rise to 9.0 feet by Tuesday evening. The river should then fall below flood stage by Wednesday afternoon. The warning brings the possibility of extensive field and lowland flooding.

Officials say Maple Street and River Road between Orleans and Coventry Station are the areas most likely to flood.

The National Weather Service issued the following warning:

“If you live or travel near streams and rivers seek higher ground immediately at first signs of rising water. Obey all road closure signs, they are there for your safety. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas, most flood deaths occur in automobiles. Turn around, don`t drown!”

Stay tuned to developments.