Winter storm watches and excessive rainfall risks paint the south-central U.S. map Wednesday through Friday as a winter storm system approaches. Expect slick driving conditions and possible flash flooding.

An upper-level low is the main driver of this event, allowing cold, dense air to dive southward. High pressure in the eastern half will help push Gulf of Mexico moisture up into the south-central U.S. This will result in heavy mountain snow and even the possibility of flooding rainfall.

The wet and snowy weather begins Wednesday.

Winter storm watches have been issued for northeast New Mexico and southeast Colorado. We can expect to see slick travel conditions, especially as you move up in elevation. A wintry mix is possible in the highlands but below 7,500 feet, 6 inches to a foot of snow is possible. Higher amounts are expected above 7,500 feet.

In the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles, rain will change over to snow on Wednesday afternoon through Thursday. Some areas could see 6 inches or more.

As of now, we could see 1 to 3 inches across Texas with locally higher amounts, especially in the eastern Texas Panhandle.

A marginal risk for excessive rainfall has been issued for both Thursday and Friday due to the chance of isolated flash flooding in Texas, the southern fringes of Oklahoma, adding far western Louisiana on Friday. This much rain in a short amount of time, especially over drought-stricken lands, could quickly cause flooding issues, puddling, and rising creeks and rivers.

Weather & Radar meteorologists will update this forecast throughout the week to keep you in the loop. Be sure to check back frequently.