Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are sweeping across the Plains, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic this week, bringing flash flooding, damaging winds, and hail. The storms are forming along the northern edge of a persistent heat dome over the southern United States, which continues to provide the energy and moisture necessary for widespread severe weather.
Heat Dome Fuels Widespread Storm Activity
A sprawling heat dome has locked in oppressive temperatures across the South, and its periphery has become the focal point for thunderstorm development. Added tropical moisture from a former rainstorm over Louisiana has only intensified rainfall potential.
Over the weekend, a powerful complex of thunderstorms caused damaging wind gusts and flooding from Iowa to Illinois, with heavy rain reaching as far as the Washington, D.C., area. Early Monday morning, rainfall rates of 1–2 inches per hour impacted areas in and around St. Louis, Missouri, creating hazardous travel conditions. West-central Minnesota also saw storms capable of producing hail and strong winds.
Expected Rainfall and Flooding Potential
Rainfall totals through early this week are expected to exceed 2 inches across a broad swath of the Midwest, Appalachians, and mid-Atlantic. Within this zone, localized totals of 4-8 inches are likely, with the potential for up to 13 inches in the hardest-hit areas, including northeastern Missouri and far southern West Virginia.
West Virginia, which is already seeing one of its wettest Julys on record, faces additional risk. As thunderstorms repeatedly track over the same areas, the combination of saturated ground and rugged terrain could result in significant flash flooding. Narrow corridors of intense rainfall will be capable of producing high water levels in a short amount of time.
Continuing Threat Through the Week
The risk of severe weather will persist throughout much of the week as the heat dome remains firmly in place. On Monday, the Plains are expected to experience the greatest storm activity, shifting toward the Midwest by Tuesday.
In addition to flash flooding, thunderstorms may produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, and localized power outages. Travel disruptions, delays, and difficult road conditions are likely in areas of heavy rain.
Key Points
- Thunderstorms will remain active from the Plains to the mid-Atlantic throughout this week.
- Rainfall totals of 2–8 inches are expected, with isolated amounts up to 13 inches.
- Flash flooding, damaging winds, and hail are the primary hazards.
- The heat dome over the South continues to fuel unstable conditions and provide moisture for storms.
- The threat will shift eastward as the week progresses, with multiple rounds of storms possible.
With the atmosphere remaining primed for severe weather, conditions may change quickly. Monitoring local forecasts and official updates will be essential in tracking these storms’ evolving impacts.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve — explore more industry insights and program opportunities at ProgramBusiness.com.