Widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches, with locally higher totals of 5 to 7 inches, are forecast across the region — leading the WPC to issue a level 3 of 4 “moderate” risk for excessive rainfall ahead of the wet forecast. This could mean widespread flash flooding in the South West. See if rain is expected where you live here »> “Urban locations apart from areas with complex terrain, slot canyons, arroyos and burn marks are particularly vulnerable to flash floods and can quickly turn into very dangerous situations,” the WPC added. Cloud of moisture and heavy rain is expected to move into North Texas from Sunday into Monday — where a level 2 out of 4 “slight risk” for excessive precipitation has been issued. Rainfall rates approaching 2 to 3 inches per hour are possible, according to the WPC. “Urban areas will be the most vulnerable to flooding for the period even with extremely dry drought conditions.” More than 90% of the state of Texas is currently experiencing drought conditions, with nearly 62% experiencing extreme or exceptional drought conditions — the highest categories.

Uncertain if potential Tropical Cyclone Four will strengthen

Potential Tropical Cyclone Four has formed over the western Gulf of Mexico, with sustained winds of 35 mph, according to a 5 a.m. update from the National Hurricane Center. It was about 230 miles south-southeast of the mouth of the Rio Grande. The hurricane center uses the potential tropical cyclone designation to issue warnings for a system before it is actually named. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Gulf Coast from Boca de Catan north to the mouth of the Rio Grande — and along the lower Texas coast from Port Mansfield south to the mouth of the Rio Grande. Tropical storms are expected in these areas over the next 12 to 24 hours as the system approaches the coast. The system is expected to reach the coast of northeastern Mexico late Saturday afternoon, pushing inland by Sunday. There is still uncertainty as to whether the system will strengthen enough to become a nominal storm before landfall. If she does, she will be named Danielle.
“Uncertainty remains whether the disturbance will be able to develop a closed surface circulation — and become a tropical cyclone — before making landfall later today,” the NHC said. An Air Force Reserve reconnaissance flight scheduled for later Saturday morning should provide more information. However, heavy rainfall of 1 to 3 inches, with isolated totals of up to 5 inches, is forecast for parts of Texas and Mexico over the next 48 hours — which could lead to localized areas of flash flooding. CNN’s Ray Sanchez contributed to this report.