A rainy week ahead, forecast says

Well, the good news is that it probably won't flood tomorrow, so it looks like we may be home free when it comes to barbecuing, swimming and setting off explosive devices in celebration of our freedom. The bad news is that it could flood today. But, you know, what can you do?

An upper-level low over West Texas is expected to combine with tropical moisture in the Gulf today to create a band of storms that could cause localized flooding in parts of the Houston area. National Weather Service meterologist Mike Castillo said there's a chance of heavy rain through this afternoon, with nearly 4 inches of rainfall expected in Houston. Castillo said today's forecast is "similar" to the situation a couple of weeks ago when nearly 11 inches of rain fell on some parts of town, but it won't be the same — 4 inches, though it's a lot, is way better than 11. Castillo said there will be some lightning, too, so you're in luck if you want to pull a Ben Franklin. (For the record, no, we don't suggest doing that.)

On Tuesday, the rainfall amount is expected to be about .96 inches — giving us the potential of some heavy rain, Castillo said. By Wednesday, the forecast calls for a 60 percent chance of rain, with a 50 percent chance Thursday and Friday.