Editor’s Note: This weather blog is no longer being updated as of Wednesday night, Oct. 3, 2023. Check here for the latest First Warning Weather forecast.

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Rain, storms and a big cool down continue on track for Thursday this week as a powerful fall storm drags a cold front through Central Texas.

The Setup

A strong area of low pressure, currently working through the intermountain west, will be responsible for some of the most widespread rain we’ve had in months and coolest temperatures since April.

This front should move through our area during the day Thursday, bringing not only cooler northerly winds, but also our best chance of heavy rain and thunderstorms this week.

The Rain and Timing

Only isolated rain and thunderstorms are possible Tuesday and Wednesday ahead of the system. When the cold front and storm system move into our area on Thursday, periods of rain and thunderstorms are virtually guaranteed at times.

While it will not rain all day at your house Thursday, bringing the umbrella and rain gear are a smart bet if you must be out and about. Kids may have a wet time at the morning and afternoon bus stop in some areas, and traffic will be impacted.

Rainfall Amounts

Broadly speaking, 1-2 inches of beneficial rainfall is expected across the area from this week’s storm. Some communities could see locally heavier totals, while other see less.

Weather Threats & Concerns

The Weather Prediction Center has parts of our area in a slight risk of excessive rainfall leading to localized flash flooding late Wednesday night and through the day Thursday. While widespread, significant flooding is not expected, a few flash flood warnings may be issued.

Dry soil conditions and very low creek and river flows due to months of heat and drought will work in our favor if heavy rainfall develops, serving to absorb some of the runoff and limit flooding problems.

The threat of damaging hail or wind appears low at this time.

The Preparation

The best way to prepare is to make sure you have a way to stay weather-aware. Forecast specifics can change and we’ll inform you of any last minute changes or adjustments to the forecast all the way through the week.

Check back with us and the KXAN Weather App so that you’re informed on the day.

The Relief

Thursday’s cold front and a reinforcing shot of cool air this weekend bring heat relief we haven’t seen since April. As a matter of fact, we may have very few days left this year of 90-degree temperatures.

Music fans attending Austin City Limits Music Festival weekend one will cash in on cool, comfortable temperatures and dry weather.

After Austin’s hottest-ever June through September, enjoy this intrusion of autumn air! We deserve it.