Water, water everywhere

Hydrologists report that Arkansas is experiencing its wettest May since 1882, and the evidence is all around. Water rose in this ditch north of the U.S. 79-82 bypass near East Main Street on Monday afternoon. The Banner-News has recorded 9.16 inches of rain since May 1, including 1.23 inches since 8 a.m. Monday. However, road problems are few. The Columbia County Road Department said today that it patched part of County Road 45 north of McNeil after heavy rain undermined part of the roadway. A culvert will also have to be replaced on County Road 38 in the Free Hope community when water subsides. The area remains under a flash flood watch today.