Heavy Rains Cause Flooding

BLACKWELL, Okla. (AP) - Hundreds of homes have been flooded in Blackwell after heavy rains that inundated northwestern Oklahoma communities for more than two days forced a river from its banks.

Authorities say it's the worst flooding in a decade in the Kay County city.

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management says flooding from the Chikaskia River has forced an estimated 800 residents to seek shelter. Many others are stranded in their homes as rising water surrounds them.

Jim Inmon, emergency management director in Blackwell, says firefighters rescued six people from two separate locations in rural Kay County as floodwaters began spilling from the river's banks on Saturday. No injuries have been reported.

Inmon says emergency management officials hope to assess the flooded areas tomorrow.

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