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[May 13, 2011] (AP) Unfortunately, more storms are en route for the Mississippi River for Friday the 13th.

A low pressure system making its way through the Plains has created a cold front that extends southward. As the low pressure system moves eastward over the Midwest and toward New England, it will push the front over the Mississippi River Valley and up the Ohio River Valley. The leading edge of this system will pull ample moisture in from the Gulf of Mexico, which will create favorable conditions for thunderstorm activity. Many of these storms will turn severe with periods of heavy downpours, large hail, strong winds and even tornadoes. Rainfall totals between 1 to 2 inches are likely across the mid- and lower Mississippi River Valley, while up to 3 inches are possible in areas of severe storm development. This will cause additional issues across the already swollen Mississippi River Valley.

Behind this system, a ridge of high pressure will build into the Plains and allow for a break in wet weather. Expect sunny skies to return to the Dakotas, with highs in the lower 60s, while the southern Plains will remain in the 80s. Strong afternoon winds will create dangerous fire weather conditions across western Texas.

Out West, a ridge of high pressure over the West Coast brings another dry day to the region, before another low pressure system approaches from the Pacific Ocean.

Temperatures in the Lower 48 states Thursday ranged from a morning low of 21 degrees at Yellowstone, Wyo., to a high of 97 degrees at Gainesville, Fla.

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Online:

Weather Underground: http://www.wunderground.com/

National Weather Service:
http://iwin.nws.noaa.gov/

Intellicast:
http://www.intellicast.com/

[Associated Press article from Weather Underground]