Springfield, Missouri – Additional thunderstorms tonight could trigger localized flash flooding across parts of southern Missouri after a week of heavy rainfall.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, multiple inches of rain have already fallen across the region this week, leaving some areas more vulnerable to flooding if additional storms develop Friday evening.
Forecasters said another 0.25 to 0.75 inches of rain is possible across much of the area through early Saturday morning. However, localized totals could reach around 2.5 inches where stronger thunderstorms repeatedly move over the same locations.
The Weather Service said flash flooding would likely be driven by high rainfall rates in thunderstorms, particularly in areas that have already seen the highest rainfall totals this week.
Communities highlighted within the highest potential risk zone include Fort Leonard Wood, Salem, Mountain Grove, Eminence, Gainesville, Branson, and West Plains, according to the forecast graphic released Friday afternoon.
Overall rainfall totals earlier this week have ranged from 1 to 4 inches across parts of southern Missouri, increasing the chance that additional storms could quickly overwhelm localized drainage areas.
The National Weather Service warned that flash flood warnings may be issued if storms intensify this evening and rainfall rates increase.
Residents planning outdoor activities Friday night are encouraged to remain weather aware and monitor updates from local officials and the National Weather Service.
For students, evening workers, and commuters traveling after dark, rapidly changing road conditions could develop if heavy storms pass through the area.
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