The National Weather Service is forecasting multiple rounds of thunderstorms across northeast Kansas through Thursday, with the greatest risk for widespread rain and severe weather arriving Thursday and Thursday night.

Forecasters say Manhattan is expected to receive between 2 and 3 inches of rain through Thursday night, with isolated higher amounts possible. The widespread rainfall could lead to localized flooding issues, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.

Thursday carries the highest confidence for widespread showers and thunderstorms, with rain chances ranging from 70% to 95%. While most of northeast Kansas is expected to see rain, the strongest storms and greatest severe weather threat are forecast mainly along and south of Interstate 70. Large hail and damaging winds are possible, though heavy rainfall remains the primary concern.

Storm chances continue today with a marginal severe weather risk across parts of central and north-central Kansas. Damaging winds are the primary concern, although isolated hail and locally heavy rainfall are also possible.

After the wet weather exits, summer heat is expected to build into the region this weekend. Heat index values in Manhattan could reach 102 degrees Saturday and climb as high as 105 degrees Sunday and Monday.

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