Daily briefing: Moisture, instability meet & impacts eastern half

A synoptic setup is in place, positioning key components to enhance rain and thunderstorm activity across much of the eastern half of the United States. All of this, along with today's tropical outlook, is included in the daily briefing, published every weekday at 5 a.m. ET.

There is a high-pressure system located over the Atlantic Ocean (the Bermuda High), which will continue to provide a south-southeasterly flow across the Southeast, injecting moisture into the region. Aiding the instability, especially over the Gulf Coast, a tropical disturbance will continue to bring heavy rainfall, particularly over Louisiana—more on this disturbance in the tropical update section below.

There is also a cold front pushing south from the Great Lakes, losing its punch, likely becoming stationary. From here, a cold front extends and exits the Northeast. There is a slight risk of flash floods across eastern North Carolina and Virginia. Rainfall on Friday is expected to range from 1 to 2 inches, with some areas potentially receiving more than 3 inches. The Midwest also has a level 1 out of 4 risk for flash floods. Iowa has a chance to receive up to 3 inches of rain in some isolated spots.

A storm system will bring more clouds and a shift in winds across the west, which will keep the highs slightly below average for this time of year. The TemperatureRadar shows highs that will remain just below or just at 100°F in cities like Las Vegas, and Phoenix at 105°F, so it will still be hot, but at least not extreme.

The tropical disturbance continues to impact the Gulf Coast states. The chances for this system to acquire a name have lowered, so it is unlikely to become Dexter, but this is not important, as high rainfall is still forecast for the Central Gulf Coast. New Orleans and its surrounding areas, which are potentially vulnerable to flash floods, are expected to experience heavy rainfall through Saturday, with some areas potentially receiving over 10 inches and isolated spots receiving up to 15 inches.

Our Weather & Radar meteorologist will closely monitor the weather and send you personalized alerts to your phone, keeping you informed. Please avoid flooded roads.