The area could see 3 to 5 inches of rain and a high risk for flooding this week, thanks to repeated rounds of showers and storms starting tonight and running through much of the week.

The National Weather Service out of La Crosse, Wis., is warning of a chance for severe thunderstorms in Mower County and the region today, especially after 6 p.m. The highest risk for strong storms appears to be along a line on the southern edge of Interstate 90 west of the Mississippi River, though it’s unclear where the strongest storms will hit, according to the weather service. Large hail, damaging winds, isolated tornadoes and heavy rains are possible, though NWS meteorologists say there’s only a slight chance for tornadoes as of Monday morning.

“It looks like the storms initially could produce damaging winds and hail,” said NWS meteorologist Mike Welvaert.

Severe storms are possible again Tuesday and Wednesday, and periods of showers — some heavy — are expected to continue through the weekend. It’s too early to tell if the weather could be severe Thursday through Saturday, but flash flooding could be a concern if rains persist, according to the weather service.

“We’re kind of stuck in a pattern where we’re going to have several disturbances coming through the area,” Welvaert said.

Some spotter groups will be needed today, according to the weather service.

Today’s high is expected to be around 83 today, with a low around 68. Temperatures are expected to reach 87 Tuesday and Wednesday.

Mower County was hit by a line of storms throughout the day Saturday. The Austin area received about an inch of rainfall.