St. Louis, Missouri – Slick roads and reduced visibility could disrupt travel across the Mississippi Valley by Wednesday morning as repeated rounds of rain begin impacting Missouri and Arkansas during peak commute hours.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the Mississippi Valley region is in a high-confidence zone for above-average precipitation from Wednesday through Saturday, with totals expected to run 30 to 60 percent higher than normal. A strong signal for above-normal temperatures is also in place, with a 70 to 80 percent probability of warmer-than-average conditions across the region.
St. Louis, Kansas City, and Little Rock are expected to see multiple waves of rainfall, increasing the risk of standing water on major corridors including I-70, I-44, and I-40. In southern Missouri and northern Arkansas, including Springfield and Fayetteville, heavier bursts could reduce visibility below one mile at times. Eastern Arkansas cities such as Jonesboro and central locations like Conway may also see localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Drivers should slow down on wet roads, avoid water-covered highways, and allow extra time for travel. Residents are encouraged to clear storm drains and check sump pumps ahead of the heaviest rainfall.
This wet and warm pattern is expected to continue through Saturday night, with additional advisories likely as rainfall totals and timing become more precise.
