US: Adverse weather forecast across portions of the central US through at least early May 16

Event

Thunderstorms with rounds of strong winds, hail, and possible tornados are forecast to occur across portions of the central US through at least early May 16. The affected area includes eastern New Mexico, southeastern Wyoming, southwestern Nebraska, eastern Colorado, Kansas, northern and western Oklahoma, and western and northern Texas. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a "Slight Risk" (Level 2 on a 5-tier scale) forecast for severe weather for eastern Colorado, far southwestern Nebraska, western Kansas, the Oklahoma Panhandle, far northern Texas, and far eastern New Mexico for May 14-early May 16. 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. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
The storms will be capable of producing heavy downpours, damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes across the affected area through at least early May 16. 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 and I-40 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 adverse weather has been forecast. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelter if tornado warnings are issued.

Resources

NWS Tornado (Twitter)
US National Weather Service (NWS)
US Road Conditions