A significant stormy pattern is about to sweep through the southern United States, with expectations of severe weather and potential flooding through the upcoming weekend. Residents in these areas should prepare for hazardous conditions that may arise due to clusters of severe storms known as mesoscale convective systems. These systems are particularly prevalent during summertime and are often responsible for intense weather phenomena, including heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
Forecast Overview
Friday to Friday Night:
The weather will kick off aggressively, particularly across the Southern Plains and extending into the Tennessee and Ohio valleys. While not every region will likely experience thunderstorms, those that do can expect damaging winds alongside heavy rainfall. The risk for tornadoes and large hail is elevated from the Texas Panhandle through southeast Colorado and southwest Kansas, making these areas especially vulnerable.
Beyond the more central areas, isolated severe storms could also form along a path stretching from Pennsylvania to southern New England. Due to the anticipated heavy rainfall, flash flooding is a real concern across numerous regions, including Oklahoma, the Ohio Valley, the Tennessee Valley, and parts of the mid-Mississippi Valley as well as the interior Northeast.
Saturday to Saturday Night:
As we move into the weekend, a broader region of the South will experience scattered thunderstorms. Those planning outdoor activities should remain vigilant. The risk of severe storms during this period is particularly high from North Texas and Oklahoma to parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, extending all the way to the Carolinas, which includes major cities like Atlanta, Birmingham, Charlotte, Dallas, and Memphis.
Wind damage and lightning are the primary threats in these areas, along with the potential for flash flooding. Staying informed is essential, as conditions can change rapidly, and having a weather app or alerts set up can prove beneficial during thunderstorms.
Sunday Highlights:
Sunday is set to bring continued instability with severe storms targeting distinct areas. One focus will be along the Southeast coast, extending into southeast Virginia, where damaging wind gusts are likely to affect afternoon conditions.
In the Southern Plains—including northern Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, northwest Louisiana, and southern Missouri—widespread destructive wind gusts and large hail are expected. Flash flooding remains a significant threat, particularly from Lubbock to the Dallas-Fort Worth area and Oklahoma City. This southern threat will largely unfold from late afternoon into the late night hours, requiring residents to stay alert and take precautions.
Monday to Tuesday Forecast:
As we venture into early next week, rounds of storms are expected to persist across the southern regions. While forecasting details will become clearer as the date approaches, it is anticipated that the stormy weather may shift south. Overall, from now through early next week, many southern regions may receive at least an inch of rain, with multi-inch totals possible where storms stall or repeatedly hit the same area.
Given the serious implications of this hazardous weather pattern, it’s crucial for those living within the affected regions to remain informed and prepared. The National Weather Service provides updates on watches and warnings that can help keep you and your family safe.
What to Do If Severe Weather Strikes:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check reliable weather sources for the latest updates.
- Have a Safety Plan: Create an emergency kit and establish a family safety plan, including designated shelter areas in your home.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Many weather apps and services allow you to create alerts for your area, so you can receive timely notifications regarding severe weather threats.
- Avoid Flooded Areas: If heavy rain occurs, avoid driving through flooded roads, as this poses severe risks.
As the stormy weather pattern takes shape, vigilance is paramount for those in the South. Nature often shows its unpredictable side, and preparedness can make all the difference when severe weather strikes.
Stay tuned to weather updates as you make plans over the next few days, and consider following weather experts on social media for real-time information. Keeping your safety a priority during adverse weather conditions is crucial.
