The St. Louis area braces for significant rainfall and potential severe weather conditions, as reported by the National Weather Service (NWS) in St. Louis, MO. According to the NWS' latest update on forecast.weather.gov, today's weather forecast includes "a chance of showers and thunderstorms" transitioning into "showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 11am," with a 100% chance of precipitation and the potential for "heavy rainfall."
Furthermore, the NWS has placed several counties under a flood watch through late Saturday night. A statement released early Friday morning highlighted the ongoing danger: "Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible." The areas affected span across parts of Illinois and Missouri, including the cities of Vandalia, Farmington, Union, Belleville, Saint Louis, Centralia, Chester, Salem, Alton, Washington, Sullivan, Cahokia, Sparta, and Edwardsville. The NWS explicitly warns that "excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations" and that "creeks and streams may rise out of their banks."
Residents and local officials are to remain vigilant, especially since the forecast brings the possibility of thunderstorms that could, under certain conditions, become severe this afternoon and evening. While large hail is noted as the primary threat, the NWS also alerts to a "conditional threat of tornadoes and damaging winds in southeastern Missouri and southwestern Illinois." These storms are part of a pattern set to deliver persistent thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, with the "greatest threat of flash flooding this evening into early overnight" in designated areas.
Looking ahead, the region is not expected to dry out immediately. The NWS forecasts a continued chance of showers and thunderstorms into the weekend. Saturday could bring "showers and thunderstorms likely before noon," and dispelling only slightly as the cloudy skies and rain chance linger into Sunday. While Monday promises sunshine with a high near 60 degrees, the respite could be brief. There's a slight chance of thunderstorms re-entering the picture "Wednesday night into Thursday." Occupants of the affected regions must to prepare and stay updated on weather developments as more information becomes available.
In terms of river conditions, the heavy rain forecast prompts concerns from the NWS about "moderate to major river flooding" due to the extensive rainfall amounts anticipated. While the Hazardous Weather Outlook indicates that spotter activation is not expected at this time, the Service advises the public to monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
