05 Nov 2022 | 05:03 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather causes damages in parts of Ark., La., Okla., and Texas as of late Nov. 4 /update 1
Adverse weather causes damages in parts of Ark., La., Okla., and Texas, US as of late Nov. 4. Possible tornadoes and disruptions.
Event
Severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes, have caused damages across several parts of Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, as of late Nov. 4. Reports indicate that at least one person died and several others were injured in McCurtain County, Oklahoma. Structural damages have been reported in Broken Bow, Idabel, and parts of northeast Oklahoma, as well as Lamar and Hopkins counties in Texas. Casualty numbers may increase over the coming hours as damage assessments continue.
Further flight disruptions are also likely at Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW) after authorities canceled around 300 flights, the afternoon of Nov. 4. The US National Weather Service (NWS) issued a tornado watch for parts of northern Louisiana, eastern Arkansas, and far southeastern Texas until at least 04:00 CDT Nov. 5. Severe thunderstorm warnings remain in effect for much of Arkansas, and north-central Louisiana.
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 and 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 could 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 will also likely trigger further flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region, including but not limited to Dallas/Fort Worth International (DFW), William P. Hobby (HOU), and George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) 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 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.
