US: Adverse weather forecast across central and southeastern regions through at least early Aug. 2

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the central and southeastern US through at least early Aug. 2. Severe thunderstorms are forecast across parts of the Central Plains, Middle Mississippi Valley, and Ohio Valley. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning, hail, and tornadoes may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of late July 30, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued severe thunderstorm watches and warnings across most of North Dakota, most of South Dakota, north central Nebraska, northern Georgia, and western North Carolina.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms (the middle level on a five-tier scale) from the mid-Missouri Valley southeastward into the mid-Mississippi Valley through early July 31 and across far southeastern South Dakota, far eastern Nebraska, and western Iowa July 31. There is a slight risk of severe storms across the rest of the affected area through early Aug. 2.

The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a slight risk of excessive rainfall (the second-lowest level on a four-tier scale) from portions of the mid-Mississippi Valley, lower Ohio Valley, and upper Tennessee Valley into the southern Appalachians through early July 31, across portions of the upper Mississippi Valley into the Midwest July 31, and across portions of the Ohio Valley Aug. 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 located 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or strong winds impact utility networks.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.

Localized business disruptions will probably 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.