30 Dec 2020 | 03:08 PM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across southern region through at least early Jan. 2
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding forecast across the southern US through at least early Jan. 2. Disruptions are possible.
Event
Thunderstorms with rounds of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding associated with a low-pressure system are forecast to occur across portions of the southern US through at least early Jan. 2. The affected area includes eastern Texas, southeastern Oklahoma, far southern Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, far southern Illinois, far southern Indiana, western Kentucky, western and central Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, northern Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and southern North Carolina.
The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a "Slight Risk" (Level 2 on a 5-tier scale) forecast for severe weather for far eastern Texas, southern and central Louisiana, southern Mississippi, southwestern Alabama, and far western Florida Panhandle. However, storms in this region are not forecast to be widespread or long-lived. Isolated intense storms are possible, which may contain hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a "Slight Risk" (Level 2 on a 4-tier scale) for excessive rainfall for eastern Texas, far southeastern Oklahoma, southwestern and central Arkansas. Additionally, flood and flash flood watches are in effect for portions of eastern Texas, far southeastern Oklahoma, and western Arkansas. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming hours.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms will be capable of producing heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes across the affected area through at least early Jan. 2. Should sustained heavy rainfall occur, it could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at regional airports, though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Out of an abundance of caution, confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
