St. Louis, Mo. – Waves of soaking rain and scattered thunderstorms will move across the I-70 corridor through early Wednesday, with the heaviest downpours expected north of St. Louis by midnight Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, rain chances exceed 80% across much of northern Missouri and west-central Illinois through tonight, with multiple rounds of showers continuing into early Wednesday morning. A few thunderstorms may produce small hail, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
The most persistent and heavier rain is expected along and north of I-70, including Columbia, Jefferson City and areas toward Quincy. Rainfall will be more intermittent south of I-44 and I-55, though periods of moderate rain are still likely in St. Louis, Chesterfield and Belleville.
Motorists should anticipate wet pavement and ponding on roadways, particularly on stretches of I-70, I-64 and I-55 where heavier showers develop. Visibility may briefly drop below two miles in downpours, and isolated lightning could impact evening travel.
While widespread flooding is not expected in this initial round, repeated rainfall through the end of the week may gradually increase runoff concerns. Drivers are urged to slow down during heavier bursts and avoid driving through standing water.
Additional rounds of rain and thunderstorms are forecast through Friday as an active weather pattern remains in place. Updated advisories may be issued if stronger storms or heavier rainfall develops overnight.
