The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch through the weekend due to heavy rains expected in the next few days.

Multiple rounds of rain are expected Thursday through Saturday across the St. Louis region, southwest Illinois and eastern Missouri.

The heaviest rain along with a few thunderstorms is expected late Friday afternoon into Saturday morning. The rain will then slowly turn to snow over the course of Saturday.

Heavy rainfall will result in flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the NWS said. Rivers and creeks will also rise due to the heavy rain.

St. Louis is expected to get 3 to 4 inches of rain.

The flash flood watch was issued for portions of Missouri and Illinois, including St. Louis County and St. Louis city, plus the Missouri counties of Jefferson, St. Charles, Franklin, Warren, Washington, Crawford, Gasconade, Iron, Lincoln, Madison, Reynolds, St. Francois and Ste. Genevieve.

In Illinois, the advisory affects the counties of Monroe, St. Clair, Madison, Bond, Fayette, Clinton, Macoupin, Montgomery, Calhoun, Greene, Jersey, Marion, Randolph and Washington.

There is a “significant threat to life or property” due to the possibility of flash floods, the NWS said. The weather service warns to never drive through running water.

The watch means that conditions are favorable to flash flooding.

Stay informed and be ready for quick action if a flash flood warning is issued.

The NWS also anticipates accumulating snow Saturday, as the rain turns to snow. Rain will change to snow over northeast Missouri Saturday morning, and then slowly change to snow over central Missouri and west central Illinois Saturday afternoon and evening.

The forecast is likely to be adjusted over the coming days. Stay tuned to The Call’s website and social media for updates.