ST. LOUIS, Mo. – A dangerous stretch of heavy rain is set to soak the Upper Midwest this weekend, with the National Weather Service warning that some areas could see up to 8 inches by early Sunday morning. Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin are all under a Moderate Risk for excessive rainfall, bringing a heightened chance of flash flooding.
According to the NWS Weather Prediction Center, storms will develop Saturday afternoon and intensify overnight, moving slowly and producing rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour. Widespread totals of 4 to 6 inches are likely, with localized spots near 8 inches where storms repeatedly track over the same locations.
The flood threat will be highest in urban areas, low-lying neighborhoods, and along rivers and streams. Travel hazards could emerge quickly, especially on major corridors including Interstates 70, 80, and 90. Emergency officials urge drivers to avoid any flooded roadway, noting that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
Communities in eastern Missouri and western Illinois are already monitoring river levels, while rural areas in southern Wisconsin and northern Iowa could see rapid flash flooding due to saturated ground. Power outages are also possible if storms bring strong wind gusts along with the rain.
Residents are urged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings overnight, keep mobile devices charged, and prepare for possible evacuation orders in flood-prone areas. Sandbagging efforts may be needed in some communities if rainfall totals approach the higher forecast range.
The heaviest rain is expected to shift eastward by midday Sunday, but forecasters warn additional alerts could be issued if the system slows or regenerates. Officials emphasize the importance of staying alert through the weekend and avoiding unnecessary travel during the overnight flood threat.
