More than 3 inches of rain are forecast to fall in parts of eight states through the weekend, including Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Texas and Michigan, potentially leading to flooding.

Heavy rain, winds, and lightning could hinder Easter weekend plans. Storm Center 7 is TRACKING these conditions. Storm Center 7 Weather Specialist Nick Dunn has the latest TIMING and IMPACTS today on News Center 7 Saturday from 6 a.

Texas got off to a quick start with severe weather this month. From April 1-5, the Lone Star State logged 15 confirmed tornado reports, along with 57 reports of hail at least an inch in diameter. Since then,

Forecasters warned of heavy rain and thunderstorms, raising the risk of floods through the weekend.

Strong to severe storms will be possible in Alabama from tonight and into the day on Sunday. A few tornadoes, damaging winds, hail and heavy rain will all be possible, with the possibility of flooding a growing concern on Saturday night. A flood watch is in effect for the northern part of the state.

Chicago weather Friday will see temperatures soar near 80 degrees before the warm, wet air mass collides with a cold front that could produce severe thunderstorms.

Severe thunderstorms are possible for some portions of the Chicago area Friday after a summer-like day with temperatures well into the 70s. Scattered severe storms are possible between 6 p.m. and midnight,