Flash Flood Risk as Heavy Rain Threatens Midwest Today

Parts of the Midwest are being warned of potential flash flooding on Thursday, as excess rainfall threatens a "slight risk" in the region, particularly in the upper area.

Forecasts from the Weather Prediction Center (WPC) have given a timeframe of 12 UTC Thursday, June 4, to 12 UTC Friday, June 5, for excess rainfall. The slight risk, at around 15% or greater chance, is now estimated to fall within the area of northeastern Kansas.

The frequency of thunderstorms in the region places the I-70 corridor from Salina to Topeka at a higher risk of additional rainfall later on Thursday. A more unclear threat stretches from northeastern Kansas into Iowa, where storm clusters may produce heavy rain through the later hours of the day.

Rainfall, estimated by the WPC to be approximately 1-2 inches, may occur, should the projected risk become apparent. Additionally, a (Rapid Refresh Forecast System) RRFS prediction showing a 10 to 20 percent occurrence for 2-inch or greater volumes going into the early hours of Friday. Urban areas with little to no soil, as well as low-lying areas or streets with little drainage, are at the highest risk for any potential flash flooding.

In neighboring eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa, National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters in Omaha are reporting that these projected frequent thunderstorms could bring dangerous winds, hail, and flash flooding to the region, as well as a small risk of a brief tornado.

Residents in the affected areas listed above should continue to monitor NWS alerts for the remainder of the day and early into Friday. Drivers in particular should check planned journeys and avoid flooded roads, even when water levels appear minor, as they can be deceiving when using eyesight alone.

source https://www.mensjournal.com/news/flash-flood-risk-as-heavy-rain-threatens-midwest-today