Flood watch issued for Treasure Coast, Okeechobee through 11 p.m.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — A Flood Advisory is in effect for St. Lucie County until 4:30 p.m.

A Flood Advisory is in effect for St. Lucie County until 4:30 p.m. (WPEC)

A flood watch is in effect until 11 p.m. Thursday for parts of the Treasure Coast and Central Florida, including Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie and Okeechobee counties.

The National Weather Service said numerous showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop Thursday afternoon and continue into the early evening. Some storms could bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated totals of 5 to 7 inches possible.

Forecasters warned the heavy rain could lead to flash flooding, particularly in areas that have already received significant rainfall recently.

Excessive runoff could flood rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas. Urban locations and places with poor drainage may also see flooding, while storm drains and ditches could become clogged with debris.

Residents should avoid driving through flooded roadways and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions through Thursday night.