Tropical Storm Bill's Rainfall Path

Tropical Storm Bill continues to churn in the Gulf this afternoon, and that means very impressive rainfall totals are expected as Bill moves onshore.  Usually a tropical storm like this is a gift to the central plains, but this year is different. Over the last several years Texas has been in an extreme drought; however, with all the recent rains, Texas has been in good shape.  Arkansas is reeling from flooding rainfall during the month of May, so the rain really isn't that welcome even as they head into the teeth of summer.  Fort Smith picked up close to 20 inches sending many major rivers over their banks.

The heavy rainfall swath looks to remain across Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri.  Closer to home, southern Wisconsin will not see any of the tropical moisture.  We have several fronts that will keep us relatively dry as we head into the weekend.  Those fronts will usher in an easterly flow keeping the humidity to our south.

We have better chances for showers and storms late Saturday evening into Sunday morning, and that could include locally heavy rainfall.  Stay tuned!

CBS58 Chief Meteorologist Drew Burgoyne