Authorities say the Little Blue River has left its banks in south-central Nebraska.

The National Weather Service said Tuesday that the river is a foot above flood stage of 10 feet and cresting near Deweese. The service says the high water is moving downstream to Nuckolls and Thayer counties, where minor flooding is expected through Wednesday. Stream flooding also is expected to continue in Adams and Webster counties.

The ground is already saturated from heavy rains Sunday night and Monday morning. The service says more than 7.25 inches was recorded overnight at a reporting station two miles northeast of Blue Hill.

Flash flood watches are posted for much of eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa. The service says heavy rain is expected from storms moving through the area.