27 Apr 2021 | 02:16 PM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across the central and eastern regions through at least early April 29
Heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail, and possible flooding forecast across central and eastern US through at least early April 29.
Event
Thunderstorms with rounds of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast to occur across portions of the central and eastern US through at least early April 29. The affected area includes northeastern Colorado, far southeastern Wyoming, southern and eastern Nebraska, northern, central, and eastern Kanas, central and eastern Texas, western and northern Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, far southeastern Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, far northwestern Tennessee, far western and far northern Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio far northern West Virginia, Michigan, western and northern Pennsylvania, and western New York. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a "Slight Risk" (Level 2 on a 5-tier scale) forecast for severe weather for far northeastern Colorado, far southwestern Nebraska, far northeastern and far southeastern Kansas, central and eastern Oklahoma, and central Texas for April 27-early April 29. 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.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms will be capable of producing heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes across the affected area through at least early April 29. 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 including I-20, I-35, I-40, and I-70 corridors. 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 possible 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.
