Storms, heavy rain could bring flash flooding to already soaked areas

The National Weather Service says storms are going to bring potentially dangerous amounts of rain overnight to southeastern Minnesota, northeastern Iowa and west central Wisconsin.

Jeff Boyne, a forecaster with the weather service in La Crosse, Wis., said the storm should start late Tuesday afternoon and continue nearly until daybreak Wednesday morning.

"Considering the rainfall rates we're looking at, probably in excess of two inches per hour, typically when you get an inch an hour, a lot of urban areas will quickly flood, and when you double that it's going to be even worse," Boyne said.

The National Weather Service said more than 8 inches of rain has fallen in some areas between Des Moines, Iowa, and the Wisconsin Dells in the last week and a half. The saturated ground is raising the risk of flooding.

"We're looking at anywhere from about 4 to 8 inches across parts of southeastern Minnesota," Boyne said. "And this rain falling during the night is going to cause flash flooding. And also mudslides."

Forecasters advise drivers to stay off the roads while visibility is limited.