Most of the rain is forecast to fall in as little as 3-6 hours. A small chance of heavier rain and flooding could pose "an elevated threat to life and cause significant disruptions to transportation, flood underground infrastructure and basements and first floors of residences and businesses," with water rescues needed, the weather service said.

Watch KHOU 11 meteorologist Chris Ramirez's Houston-area forecast.

Friday will bring a decent chance for scattered afternoon/evening storms, then we have a tricky weekend forecast.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms canceled or delayed hundreds of flights in New York and the surrounding area Thursday