National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Bering Sea Storms in Alaska; Heavy Rain in Hawaii; Severe Thunderstorms in the Upper Mississippi Valley

A series of Bering Sea storms continues to impact western Alaska this week, with elevated water levels, isolated coastal flooding, high surf, erosion, and strong winds. Tropical moisture will bring the potential for heavy rain and thunderstorms to Hawaii through early Thursday. A few severe thunderstorms are possible over the Upper Mississippi Valley today with some tornado potential. Read More >

Updated: 1215 PM CDT Sept 21, 2016
 

Overview

Multiple rounds of heavy rain can be expected through Thursday.  Several inches are likely which could result in flash flooding and significant rises on rivers and lakes.  The heaviest rainfall amounts are likely to fall across east central/southeast Minnesota into west central/southwest Wisconsin.

There is also a chance for severe weather this afternoon and evening.  As thunderstorms develop, they will be capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.

Stay weather aware this week and monitor later forecasts closely.


Key Points

  • Potential Impacts: Flooded roads, rising rivers, urban flash flooding.
     
  • Timing: through Thursday.
     
  • Amounts: Widespread 2 to 4 inches, locally 6+ inches - especially in the Moderate Risk area for flash flooding shown below.
     
  • Forecast Confidence:  High for potential impacts, location, and timing.  Moderate for flood risk and rain amounts.


Rainfall Forecasts
Note: maps indicate an areal average.  Locally higher and lower totals should be expected. 
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Day 1 Day 2 Day 3
Day 4-5 Day 6-7 Day 1-7 Total

 

Excessive Rainfall Outlooks
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Day 1 Day 2 Day 3


Today's Severe Weather Outlook
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Severe Weather Risk Tornado Risk Damaging Wind Risk Large Hail Risk