Thursday's forecast: Stormy central, hot in California
Severe storms will pelt the central U.S., while both coasts are mostly dry and mild Thursday. Chilly air will sweep into the north-central U.S.
Central U.S.: Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely from the Great Lakes to the Gulf Coast Thursday. Some of the thunderstorms could be severe in cities such as Chicago, St. Louis, Little Rock, Memphis and Dallas.
Cool temperatures in the 50s and 60s will sweep in behind the rain in the northern Plains and northern Rockies.
West: A heat wave will build in California, along with dry winds and high wildfire danger.
East: Warm and dry weather is likely for most of the eastern third of the country. Afternoon showers are forecast in Florida.
Weather history for Oct. 2: In 1983, floods left 10 dead in Tucson, Ariz., washing out bridges and roads, and forcing thousands from their homes. In 2001, Sacramento hit 104 degrees.
In 2007, several tornadoes were reported in Iowa and Missouri.