Tracking a summer-like end to the workweek

THIS MORNING: Warm in the lower 70s. Rain exits early while clouds linger.

TODAY: Highs climbing to 90 degrees with partly cloudy skies. Storms remain south of I-44 this afternoon.

EXTENDED: An active pattern sets up this weekend with widespread rain and a potential for severe storms. Several rounds of showers and storms are expected, and the heaviest rain falls between late Saturday and early Monday. Severe storms could develop on Sunday with more energy and shear bringing a threat of hail and strong winds. Rain totals through Monday range between 1-2" with the highest amounts in northeast Missouri. Next week is much cooler behind this rain as highs drop below average to the 70s.