25 Aug 2023 | 02:39 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across parts of the Great Lakes through early Aug. 25
Severe weather forecast across parts of the Great Lakes, US, through early Aug. 25. Transport, business, and utility disruptions likely.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across parts of the Great Lakes through at least early Aug. 25. 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 late Aug. 24, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued severe thunderstorm watches and warnings across southern Michigan and flood watches and advisories for parts of northern Ohio.
The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has warned of an enhanced risk (level 3 on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms across parts of the southern Great Lakes through early Aug. 25. Slight risks of severe thunderstorms are in place over southern Michigan, northeastern Indiana, northern Ohio, western Pennsylvania, and far western New York.
The NWS's Weather Prediction Center (WPC) has warned of a slight risk (level 2 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall for parts of the Four Corners Region, eastern Great Lakes, and upper Ohio Valley over the same period. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
As of late Aug. 24, more than 212,000 people in Michigan, mostly in the southern parts of the state, and more than 10,000 people across New York are without power.
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.
