29 Jun 2023 | 12:39 PM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across central and east-central regions through July 2
Adverse weather forecast across the central and east-central US through July 2. Transport and utility disruptions likely; tornados possible.
Event
Severe thunderstorms are forecast across parts of the central plains, mid-Mississippi Valley, and Ohio Valley through early July 2. Heavy downpours, large hail, high winds, and tornadoes are possible during storms. As of June 29, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued severe thunderstorm watches and warnings across parts of southeastern Nebraska, northeastern Kansas, southern Iowa, northern Missouri, eastern and western Illinois, and southern Indiana. The NWS Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has warned of an enhanced risk (level 3 on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms across much of Illinois and parts of southern Iowa, far northeastern Missouri, southwestern Indiana, and northern Kentucky June 29-30. A slight risk of severe thunderstorms is in place across the rest of the affected area. There is a further slight risk of severe storms across parts of the Ohio Valley region July 1-2. The NWS Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has issued a slight risk (level 2 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall across portions of southeastern Wyoming, northeastern Colorado, western Nebraska, eastern Illinois, southwestern Indiana, and central and northern Kentucky June 29-30. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
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 trigger additional 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- 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 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.
