Heavy rain could bring localized flooding to Mid-Missouri

Although it’s been a relatively dry summer across Mid-Missouri, there is a chance we could see some flooding across the region overnight Wednesday.

Thanks to clouds building into Mid-Missouri earlier than anticipated, the severe threat has greatly decreased with the storms we will see. While that is the case, that doesn’t mean we face no threat of strong storms Wednesday night.

Storms are expected to fire Wednesday ahead of a cold front that has been tracking through the plains. These storms which will initially be slow-movers, will gradually track through most of Mid-Missouri. With high amounts of moisture present in the atmosphere and plenty of storms expected through the night, most storms will be efficient rainfall producers.

Chariton, Macon, Randolph and Saline counties are under a flash flood watch. This watch will be in effect until 7 AM Thursday morning.

Upon initialization of storms, many areas along and north of the highway could see training of thunderstorms, or storms that track over the same area. Mid-Missouri will see the heaviest rain and storms arrive after 9pm, carrying on through the night. It’s in these areas where the greatest threat for localized flooding lies through the night. Up to two inches of rain is possible along and north of Highway 24, with lower amounts the further south you head. It’s for this reason flash flood watches have been issued for parts of Missouri.

While flooding will be very localized and minimal, it’s important to remember if you live next to a creek that you’ll likely see it rise. Any areas that are prone to flooding within minutes is what you’ll need to watch out for by daybreak Thursday. The biggest reason flooding will likely only exist near creeks will be due to runoff from any rain that falls north of I-70.

In addition to localized flooding, there is a risk we could see a few healthy storms with damaging winds. So it’s best to secure or store any lightweight objects that you have outside. Thanks to the clouds, the Storm Prediction Center has downgraded Mid-Missouri to only a marginal risk of severe weather.

With storms expected overnight, it’s important to make sure you have some form of communication to alert you in case of severe weather.

Stay with ABC17 Stormtrack Weather as we head through the night and follow us on Twitter @ABC17Stormtrack.