US: Adverse weather forecast across central regions through at least early July 5

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the central US through at least early July 5. Successive cold fronts are expected to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms from the Rockies across the plains to the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley over the coming days. Strong winds, lightning, hail, and possible tornadoes may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of early July 1, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for eastern Nebraska and far western Iowa and flood warnings, watches and advisories across much of Iowa, parts of eastern Nebraska, far northeastern Missouri, northwestern Illinois, and far northern Minnesota. Flood warnings also remain current for many river catchments across the affected area due to precious heavy rainfall. Authorities will likely issue new alerts as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms (the middle level on a five-tier scale) over parts of northeastern Kansas, northern Missouri, and southern Iowa July 2-3. There is a slight risk of severe storms across various parts of the affected area through early July 5.

The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a moderate risk of excessive rainfall (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) for parts of eastern Nebraska and western Iowa early July 2. There is a further slight risk of excessive rainfall across various parts of the affected area through early July 5.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will probably temporarily close low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather may cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions will probably occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.