Until then, the system will bring beneficial rain to the parched region, according to the National Weather Service.

The tropical depression’s heaviest rainfall is forecast to reach the St. Louis area sometime Thursday evening, with heavy showers expected Thursday evening through Friday afternoon.

According to the weather service, the forecast amounts as of Wednesday evening were not high enough to create a significant risk of flash flooding in our area.

The lack of rain has recently led to dry soil, which further reduces the risk of flooding.

St. Louis hasn’t had any significant rain in two weeks, and the month of August has seen only 1.4 inches of rain, two inches less than normal.

The heaviest rains are expected south of St. Louis in southeastern Missouri and southern Illinois, where some areas are expected to receive over 1 inch (2.5 cm) of rain.

Areas north of Interstate 44 in Missouri and Interstate 70 in Illinois are expected to see lighter rain or no rain at all.

Francine hit the Louisiana coast southwest of New Orleans on Wednesday as a Category 2 storm, bringing deadly storm surge, widespread flooding and destructive winds to the Gulf Coast.

It is forecast to move along a path roughly following the Mississippi River, with the center of the storm reaching northeast Arkansas or the Missouri Bootheel late Thursday evening.

According to the National Weather Service, flash flooding is possible throughout the lower Mississippi Valley.

The rain could impact boat traffic on the river, as transportation south from St. Louis is limited due to low water levels.

As the remnants of Francine move east and linger for several days, light daily rainfall is possible for several days beginning Saturday, especially in eastern parts of the St. Louis region.