Rain moved into the Southern Illinois region Sunday night and is expected to persist through most of the week, according to the National Weather Service.
Beginning Tuesday, residents can expect an active and unusually warm weather pattern, with near-daily chances for rain and thunderstorms. High temperatures are forecast to remain well above normal, frequently reaching into the 70s for at least eight days.
Meteorologists warn that total rainfall could exceed 4 inches across the region through mid-March—a significant uptick, considering the area has only received 2 to 4 inches of precipitation over the past 90 days.
The National Weather Service also notes the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms, especially later next week, and will continue monitoring the situation as it develops.