Apex Wx

Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Threat Expands Across the Mid-Mississippi Valley and Ozarks
A widespread threat for heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding is expected this afternoon through tonight across portions of the Mid-Mississippi Valley, Ozarks, and western Tennessee Valley. Numerous thunderstorms are forecast to develop as several weather systems interact with a very warm and moisture-rich air mass. Some storms may produce intense downpours capable of dropping several inches of rain in a short period of time. Areas that received significant rainfall recently, including parts of eastern Oklahoma, western Arkansas, Illinois, and Indiana, may be especially vulnerable because the ground is already saturated. Localized rainfall totals could exceed several inches, leading to flooding of roads, low-lying areas, and small streams. Additional isolated flooding is also possible farther east into the Ohio Valley and north into the Plains.

Dangerous Fire Weather Conditions Expected Across the Interior West
Elevated to critical fire weather conditions are expected Sunday across parts of the Southwest, Great Basin, Central Rockies, and southern Idaho. Dry air, gusty winds, and very dry vegetation will combine to create an environment where any new fire could spread rapidly. Winds may frequently gust between 25 and 35 mph, while humidity levels remain extremely low. These conditions will be especially concerning across areas with ongoing drought and dry fuels. The Snake River Plain in Idaho is also expected to see a heightened fire danger due to similar windy and dry conditions. A few thunderstorms may develop from Utah into Wyoming, but some could produce little rainfall. These dry thunderstorms may generate lightning capable of starting new wildfires while also creating sudden, erratic wind gusts near existing fires.