14 Aug 2023 | 07:48 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across central regions Aug. 14
Severe weather forecast across parts of the central US Aug. 14. Transport, business, and utility disruptions likely.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across parts of the central US Aug. 14. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast from parts of the central plains eastward to the Tennessee Valley early Aug. 14. Heavy downpours, large hail, high winds, and possible tornadoes may accompany severe thunderstorms. Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds will likely cause property damage and power outages.
As of early Aug. 14, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for parts of northeastern Oklahoma, southeastern and southwestern Missouri, and far northwestern Arkansas. Flood warnings and advisories are also in place across parts of the affected region and a severe thunderstorms watch has been issued for parts of southeastern Missouri.
The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has warned of an enhanced risk (level 3 on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms across parts of southeastern Kansas, far northeastern Oklahoma, southern Missouri, and far northern Arkansas early Aug. 14. Slight risks of severe thunderstorms are in place over much of the rest of the affected area.
The NWS's Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has warned of a moderate risk (level 3 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall for parts of far southeastern Kansas, far northeastern Oklahoma, southern Missouri, and far northern Arkansas early Aug. 14. There is a slight risk of excessive rainfall across much of the rest of the affected area. 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 will likely 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 will likely 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.
