11 Mar 2022 | 09:03 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across parts of the South and Southeast regions through at least early March 13 /update 2
Thunderstorms forecast across parts of the South and Southeast regions, US, through at least early March 13. Disruptions possible.
Event
A developing storm system off the Upper Gulf Coast will bring thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and isolated hailstorms across parts of the South and Southeast regions through at least early March 13. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding, and the storms could spawn tornadoes across parts of the affected area.
Government Advisories
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood watches over far northern Florida and far southern Georgia through early March 12. Additional watches and warnings are likely to be issued as the storm progresses.
The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of an "Enhanced Risk" of severe thunderstorms from northern Florida into southern Georgia and a "Slight Risk" from the lower Mississippi Valley to the eastern Carolinas through early March 12. An "Enhanced Risk" of severe thunderstorms is in place across parts of the eastern Carolinas and far eastern Georgia, and a "Slight Risk" is in effect from northeastern Florida into far southern New Jersey from March 12 through early March 13.
Severe storms in the "Enhanced Risk" (Level 3) regions are forecast to be more numerous, persistent, and widespread than those in the region where a "Slight Risk" (Level 2) has been issued. Storms in the Slight Risk regions are not forecast to be widespread or long-lived. Isolated intense storms are possible; however, widespread damage is unlikely. Isolated intense storms are possible, containing hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes.
The Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has issued a "Slight Risk" for excessive rainfall for portions of the Florida Panhandle and southern Georgia through early March 12. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and 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 flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. 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; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. 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. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelter if tornado warnings are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
