St. Louis, Missouri – Missourians should prepare now for multiple rounds of steady rain March 5-11 that could flood low-lying roads and push rivers higher across the state.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Missouri falls within a 60 to 70 percent chance of above-normal precipitation during the March 5-11 period. The wet corridor stretches from the Upper Midwest through the Ohio and Tennessee valleys and into the Gulf Coast, favoring repeated rainfall events rather than a single storm system. Temperatures are also expected to trend above average statewide, increasing runoff efficiency.
In St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield and Columbia, most precipitation will fall as rain, with periods of moderate to heavy downpours possible. Warmer air will dominate through the period, eliminating concerns for wintry precipitation and allowing water to move quickly into area streams.
Heavier rain bands may create ponding along Interstates 70, 44, 55 and 435, particularly in urban corridors and low-lying stretches. The Mississippi, Missouri and Meramec rivers could see noticeable rises if repeated rainfall tracks over the same counties.
Residents should clear storm drains, secure loose outdoor items and avoid driving through water-covered roads. The wet pattern continues through March 11, and additional flood advisories could be issued if rainfall totals trend higher.
