ESCANABA — A flood watch is in effect for the Central Upper Peninsula through Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service.

Temperatures warming into the 40s today and Thursday, along with nighttime temperatures staying above freezing combined with rain amounts of a half inch to an inch may lead to possible minor flooding through Friday. The flooding potential will begin to ease on Friday as temperatures fall back below freezing.

“Though the snowpack will likely absorb some of the rain, slowing the runoff into primary rivers, it is likely smaller streams and rivers will see responses from the rain, warmer temperatures and snowmelt. Breakup ice jams may also develop on some rivers and streams. In addition, there will be ponding of water in low lying and poor drainage areas as well as possible basement flooding. The added weight of the rain soaked snow could also result in additional roof collapses,” the National Weather Service forecast stated.