Flash flooding, up to 8 inches of rain possible this weekend in San Antonio

As the National Weather Service monitors a potential tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico, meteorologists are predicting 2-4 inches of rain this weekend across South Central Texas, with some isolated pockets receiving as many as 8 inches. less As the National Weather Service monitors a potential tropical cyclone in the Gulf of Mexico, meteorologists are predicting 2-4 inches of rain this weekend across South Central Texas, with some isolated pockets ... more Photo: National Weather Service Photo: National Weather Service Image 1 of / 42 Caption Close Flash flooding, up to 8 inches of rain possible this weekend in San Antonio 1 / 42 Back to Gallery

Meteorologists said they expect the disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico to become a tropical cyclone and result in 2-4 inches of rain this weekend across South-Central Texas. Some isolated areas could get as many as 8 inches.

There is now a 50percent chance a tropical cyclone forms in the next two days, according to the National Weather Service. Regardless of development, heavy rain is possible as the system reaches Texas, according to the NWS.

Because so many areas in South Central Texas are saturated or nearly saturated from recent rainfall, as little as 1 inch of rain could cause flash flooding in some areas, meteorologists said, particularly at low water crossings and in urban areas.

The San Antonio metro is one of the "favored areas for heavy rainfall," according to the NWS. Other favored areas include the Rio Grande and western Hill Country.

RELATED: San Antonio reacts to overnight downpours, weather alerts and wet commutes

Any effects for San Antonio would occur between Friday and Sunday, weather service meteorologists predicted.

Earlier this week, Gov. Greg Abbott released a statement about the pending storm, encouraging residents to prepare.

"Texas is taking steps to prepare for a potential tropical system expected to impact the state. Urging all Texans to take precautions and review their emergency plans to prepare now," Abbott said in a tweet.

Weather officials encourage drivers to turn around rather than driving through flooded streets and risking drowning.

Less than two weeks in, this September has already been the fifth wettest ever recorded in San Antonio, according to the National Weather Service. The city, which had received nearly 10.5 inches, as of Sept. 10, is only about 5 inches short of being named the rainiest September in San Antonio history. Currently, 1946 holds that record, with 15.78 inches of rain.

S. M. Chavey is a staff writer for mySA.com. Read more of her stories here. | sarah.chavey@express-news.net | 210-250-3122 | Twitter: @smchavey