A strong spring storm is rolling across the South and Southeast to close out the work week, bringing an increased threat of flooding and severe storms.

As our WeatherRadar shows, heavy rain extends from Texas and the Gulf Coast northward into the Midwest. Storms are rolling into the Dallas area.

The trigger for the soggy and stormy weather over the next couple of days is a large spring storm extending from Texas to the Midwest. This system is tapping Gulf of Mexico moisture while cold air flowing south across the Plains is helping to create the instability needed for downpours and thunderstorms.

Today’s strongest storms will occur across the South from eastern Texas eastward into Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. Damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes will be possible from the storms that roll through Shreveport and Alexandria, La., Jackson, Miss., and Mobile, Ala.

Heavy rain will accompany the storms throughout the South and Southeast through late Saturday. Downpours could produce 2 to 5 inches of rain, increasing the chance for flooding from northern Louisiana eastward into northwestern South Carolina. This includes northern and central Georgia and the Atlanta area. Flood watches have been issued for this area and drivers should avoid flooded roads and highways.

Across the system’s northern flank, this system will keep the Great Lakes, Midwest, and lower Ohio Valley soggy. An inch or so of spring rain will soak Chicago, Indianapolis, and Detroit, likely slowing travel heading into the weekend.

The heavy rain will move into the Northeast on Sunday, once again bringing a new threat of urban flooding. Some wet snow will fall across the northern New England mountains.

Track the big spring changes using our WeatherRadar and follow all of the latest details on our WeatherNews section.