04 Aug 2023 | 02:09 PM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast to continue across central and southeastern regions through early Aug. 5 /update 1
Severe weather forecast across parts of the central and southeastern US through early Aug. 5. Transport, utility disruptions likely.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast to continue across parts of the central and southeastern US through at least early Aug. 5. A lingering frontal boundary will continue to bring storms across an area stretching southeastward from northern Missouri to southern Georgia. 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 Aug. 4, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings across parts of southeastern Missouri, far southwestern Kentucky, western Tennessee, and northern Alabama. Flood warnings, watches, and advisories have also been issued across much 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 portions of southeastern Missouri, far southwestern Kentucky, western Tennessee, far northeastern Mississippi, and northwestern and central Alabama Aug. 4 through early Aug. 5. Slight risks of excessive rainfall are in place across much of the rest of the affected area. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has warned of a slight risk (level 2 on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms across parts of central Missouri from Aug. 4 through early Aug. 5. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and 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.
