31 May 2023 | 12:46 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across the Southwest and South through at least early June 1
Severe weather forecast across parts of the Southwest and South, US, through early June 1. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across parts of the Southwest and South through at least early June 1. As of late May 30, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued severe thunderstorm watches and warnings across western Nebraska, far eastern Colorado, western Kansas, western Oklahoma, northwestern Texas, and far northeastern New Mexico. Flood watches are also in place across northeastern New Mexico.
The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of an enhanced risk (level 3 on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms over parts of southwestern Nebraska, western Kansas, eastern Colorado, and the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles and a slight risk of severe thunderstorms surrounding the enhanced warning area through early May 31. A slight risk of severe thunderstorms is in place across eastern Colorado, eastern New Mexico, western Kansas, western Texas, and the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles May 31-early June 1.
The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a slight risk (level 2 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall over parts of the southern High Plains May 31-early June 1.
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 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.
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.
The severe weather may 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. Flight disruptions are also possible. 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 across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-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 updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
