Total solar eclipse forecast

TODAY: The much anticipated total solar eclipse is here and it’s likely to be accompanied by partly cloudy skies. Cloud coverage will likely be greater in our northern counties through the morning hours thanks to an overnight storm system decaying in Iowa. Temperatures will reach close to 84 at the start of the eclipse and fall into the mid 70s by mid-eclipse, due to the lack of solar insulation. As the eclipse ends, temperatures will rise back into the upper 80s, approaching 90 degrees. Heat indices are likely to top out in the upper 90s through the afternoon hours. There is a slight chance for a shower or two through the afternoon, but the greatest chance to see any storms holds off until tonight.

TONIGHT: Late this evening we see increasing storm chances thanks to a cold front that will drop into mid-Missouri. Storms look to pick up through the overnight hours after midnight tonight. Flash Flood Watch will go into effect for Chariton , Pettis , and Saline counties beginning at 10 PM Monday night. This flash flood watch will be accompanied with a risk of severe storms, as areas along and north of I-70 are under a marginal risk for severe weather. The greatest threat with any of the storms will be damaging winds and large hail. There is also an additional threat of flash flooding, as there will be a significant amount of moisture in place across Mid-Missouri. This moisture will likely lead to very heavy rain across the region.

EXTENDED: Storms will decrease by Tuesday morning, exiting our southeastern counties. There is still a marginal risk for severe weather into Tuesday for areas to the south east. Once the rain clears out by Tuesday, we’ll see cooler and drier air filter into the region. The rest of the week features highs near 80s, with overnight lows in the upper 50s. Heat indices will be significantly lower, back into the 80s. Watch ABC17 News for the latest forecast and follow ABC17 Stormtrack on Twitter for updates.