Rain, Flood Watches Hit Northeast and Midwest

A rare cold front and multiple disturbances are bringing widespread rain and thunderstorms to much of the Northeast, Midwest, and South, with regions like Connecticut, the Susquehanna Valley, and parts of New England under flood watches and at risk for flash flooding through Thursday and Friday. Southeastern Michigan is experiencing steady rainfall, especially south of I-94, along with air quality alerts due to Canadian wildfire smoke. While there are concerns about localized flooding, the precipitation is beneficial for drought-affected areas. The ArkLaTex and northern Gulf Coast, including Louisiana, are also seeing rain and cooler temperatures, with severe weather risks remaining low and heat expected to return soon. Conditions across most regions are forecast to clear by the weekend, bringing sunny skies and lower humidity. The outlook is favorable for outdoor activities once the rain moves out.