Mississippi Valley Region – A slow-moving storm system is expected to bring widespread heavy rainfall across the south-central United States from Friday through Sunday, increasing the risk of flash flooding across multiple states this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, a storm system and associated frontal boundaries will track from the Four Corners region into the Mississippi Valley, producing rounds of rain from Friday morning through Sunday morning. Forecast rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches are possible across portions of the Central Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, and mid-South, with locally higher amounts where storms repeatedly move over the same areas.
The highest rainfall potential is expected Friday night into Saturday, followed by another round of heavy rain Saturday night, particularly across parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, and northern Texas. The NWS warns that saturated soils and repeated downpours could lead to rapid runoff and flash flooding, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage locations.
Major travel corridors including Interstate 35, Interstate 40, Interstate 44, Interstate 55, and Interstate 70 may be impacted by periods of heavy rain, reduced visibility, and water-covered roadways. Drivers are urged to use caution, avoid flooded roads, and never attempt to drive through standing water.
The NWS emphasized that impacts may occur overnight when flooding is harder to detect. Urban areas, creeks, and small rivers may respond quickly, while rural roadways could become impassable with little warning.
Residents across the affected region are encouraged to monitor forecasts, enable weather alerts, and review flood safety plans ahead of the weekend. Additional watches or warnings may be issued as the system evolves.
