Let’s split it between the amount of water expected from rainfall and the amount that could melt from the snowpack due to temperatures rising above 60 degrees today.

During this storm, a continuous flow of moisture will flow almost directly over New England. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are expected across most of New England, with the most intense precipitation expected to fall inland. This means the higher totals may extend across portions of mountainous regions in Vermont and New Hampshire, which may increase water runoff depending on the terrain. Some areas may see up to 10 cm or more of rain, but they are very localized.

Added to the amount of water is the melting snow. There is still enough snow in central and northern New England from previous storms that is melting quickly and could add another 1 to 2 inches of water, which will certainly increase the risk of flooding.

Here is the forecast snowmelt from this storm:

The good news is that this storm is expected to have a lasting impact on the ongoing drought. River levels on most rivers and streams have been very low for some time, so most rivers and streams should be able to handle the excess runoff from rain and snowmelt. However, there could be some places that absorb too much water too quickly and become flooded.

Four rivers in the Berkshires and southern Vermont near Rutland and Bennington could experience moderate flooding due to ongoing flooding, peaking shortly around or after midnight this evening.

It depends on where the most intense precipitation occurs and whether these are areas with rapidly melting snow. Also contributing is that the storm is accelerating more quickly as the night progresses – which should limit the impact as it moves out of the region.

Ken Mahan can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Instagram @kenmahantheweatherman.