08 Jun 2022 | 01:27 PM UTC
US: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of central Alabama as of early June 8
Heavy rainfall triggers flooding over parts of central Alabama, US, as of early June 8. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Disruptions are being reported across parts of central Alabama as of early June 8 due to flooding triggered by heavy rainfall. A number of roads have been flooded, including the US 31 Montogomery Highway. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for parts of the affected area as of early June 8, including parts of Cullman, southeastern and central Jefferson, central and southwestern Shelby, northeastern Walker, and southeastern Winston counties. Rainfall amounts of 5-7.5 cm (2-3 inches) have already fallen in the warning areas June 8, and additional rainfall is possible. Flash flooding is expected to be ongoing or commencing shortly in the affected areas.
Further rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in the region over the coming hours and days. A flood watch is in place through June 9 for Bibb, Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Etowah, Fayette, Jefferson, Marion, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa, Walker, and Winston counties. NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a "Slight Risk" (the second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall over parts of the affected area June 8-9. The Storm Prediction Center has warned of a "Sligh Risk" (the middle level on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms over much of Alabama June 8-9. The storms could be accompanied by damaging wind gusts, hail, and possible tornadoes.
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, as well as tornado warnings advising the public to shelter in place. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. 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 airports in the region. 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 flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of 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.
