Weather Service: Flash Flooding Expected in Clayton, Richmond Heights

Flash flooding is expected in Clayton and Richmond Heights following strong storms that came through the cities Wednesday, the National Weather Service reported on its website. Meanwhile, classes at have been canceled because of inclement weather.

"Radar estimated that over an inch of rain had fallen over the area ... and more heavy rainfall will occur before the rain stops," the Weather Service stated in an update at about 5 p.m.

A tornado watch is expected to continue until 9 p.m.

Officials at The Heights canceled land- and water-based classes along with its child care services, an email sent at 5:21 p.m. states.

"The Heights will reopen for use after all storm advisories have lifted and remain open until 9:30 p.m.," the email stated. "Sorry for any inconvenience."

A storm capable of producing a tornado was spotted near Frontenac at about 4:40 p.m., the Weather Service reported. It was moving northeast at 50 mph.

Trained weather spotters at 3:20 p.m. reported a funnel cloud in Brentwood near the mall in Richmond Heights.  

"This dangerous storm is moving northeast at 30 mph," the Weather Service stated.

Galleria shoppers were advised to seek shelter during the tornado warning, marketing manager Christine Poehling said.

"We directed them and advised them to go into our lower level," Poehling said. The situation has cleared for now, she said, but Galleria officials will be keeping an eye on the situation and follow the same procedure if needed later in the evening.

Earlier in the afternoon, spotters also saw a funnel cloud at the intersection of interstates 44 and 270, the Weather Service reported. A flood warning also is in effect for the Mississippi River in St. Louis.

A few strong to violent long-track tornadoes were possible throughout the area along with hail larger than golf balls, damaging wind gusts and heavy rain, the Weather Service stated.

In the event that storm damage occurs in Clayton or Richmond Heights, readers are asked to send photos to editor Nate Birt at nate.birt@patch.com. When submitting photos, please include the following information:

• Name of photographer
• Location of photo
• Date and approximate time at which photo was taken
• Information about damage depicted 

The potential for more dangerous weather follows the , on Sunday and a on Monday.

Power outages were not being reported in either of the St. Louis cities by Ameren Missouri.

Other information:

• Power outages may be reported to Ameren Missouri by calling 800-552-7583 or online using the My Electric Outage feature for computers or the Ameren website for smartphones.