A flood watch has been issued for central and southern Minnesota Wednesday through Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

Temperatures will warm into the 40s this week, along with forecasted widespread rainfall. The combination of melting snow and rain will likely lead to localized urban and small stream flooding issues.

According to the weather service, flooding on area roadways from rain and snow melting is possible. Storm drains should be cleared if possible. Small streams may also rise rather quickly Wednesday and Thursday as water is released.

The Albert Lea area is expected to get about 1 to 1.5 inches of rain, with temperatures expected to reach 46 degrees Wednesday and 43 degrees Thursday.

Rain will change over to snow Thursday afternoon over west and south central Minnesota, the weather service said, combining with strong northwest winds to reduce visibility.

As of press time, the nature of the snowpack and minimal amount of additional snow forecast are expected to keep blizzard conditions from occurring.

Look to the Tribune for more information as the forecast develops.