Heavy rains over the last week have made conditions conducive to flooding along the Apalachicola River and in Gulf and Calhoun counties and eastern Bay County, according to the National Weather Service in Tallahassee.

The warning, issued at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, states flood stage begins at 15 feet, height of the bank at the marina at the mouth of the Apalachicola River. Wednesday evening water level reached 14.2 feet.

Only minor flooding is predicted, according to the warning, but people with interests along the river should monitor the forecast and be prepared to take precautions to protect property and life. Waters are expected to exceed 15 feet by Friday afternoon.

The warning also reminds motorists not to drive through flooded areas as water could be deeper, or currents stronger, than first appearance.