Persistent Torrential Rain to Cause Flooding Issues in South-Central U.S.

Anticipated Rainfall Amounts

The forecasted rain will result from weather systems originating from both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Rain is expected to develop in North Texas on Thursday, gradually extending into southern and eastern Texas and western Louisiana by the end of the day.

As the system moves east, cities such as Houston, Austin, and San Antonio should prepare for 1 to 3 inches of rain. Coastal areas, including Corpus Christi, will also see significant rainfall, likely surpassing the historical average for the entire month of November.

This level of rainfall could increase the risk of localized street flooding and standing water on roadways. Motorists should exercise caution while driving during this period.

Unfortunately, the front is expected to stall when it reaches the Gulf Coast, leading to repeated downpours.

Cooler Temperatures to Follow

The front will also bring notably cooler temperatures, which may come as a surprise to areas accustomed to fall temperatures in the 80s.

Many communities in the south-central U.S. have been experiencing record highs or near-record highs, with temperatures consistently reaching the mid to upper 80s, well above the historical average in the upper 60s and low 70s.

This week, temperatures will drop into the 50s and 60s for daytime highs behind the advancing cold front. A cold north wind will further lower the "real feel" temperatures. Along the Gulf Coast, "real feel" temperatures are expected to approach the 40s at the beginning of the weekend.

While the rain may disrupt outdoor activities, it's a much-needed sight for the region, particularly for areas grappling with severe drought conditions.

Eastern Texas and Louisiana have been particularly hard-hit by drought, with the U.S. Drought Monitor categorizing much of this region as experiencing exceptionally severe drought. Moving west, parts of southern Texas are experiencing extreme drought.

While the upcoming rainy pattern won't completely eradicate the dry conditions, it will certainly help alleviate ongoing issues. Additionally, the moisture will assist in extinguishing some of the marsh fires currently burning in parts of Louisiana.

Finally, the increased moisture will reduce the likelihood of dense fog. An accident on Interstate 90 in eastern New Orleans turned fatal on Tuesday due to thick fog combining with smoke from nearby marsh fires. On Wednesday, another patch of dense fog prompted local officials to close sections of the interstate as a precautionary measure.