The heavy rain that turned a river in Texas into a raging wall of water was fueled by unique atmospheric conditions, according to meteorologists and climate scientists.

Thunderstorms are possible on Wednesday but likely on Thursday. Conditions stay warm and humid with highs in the upper 80s to around 90 Wednesday before temps return to normal on Thursday — in the 80s for most areas.

The storm flooded roads, downed trees and stranded residents across the central part of the state. It is headed northeast toward Washington, D.C., and Maryland.