US: Adverse weather forecast across central and south-central regions through at least early Nov. 5

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the central and south-central US through at least early Nov. 5. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in the southern plains Nov. 1 before spreading across the central plains Nov. 2-3. Strong winds, lightning, hail, and possible tornadoes may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of Nov. 1, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood watches for parts of southeastern New Mexico and western Texas.

The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has forecast a moderate risk of excessive rainfall (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) across parts of central and northeastern Oklahoma, far southeastern Kansas, and southwestern Missouri Nov. 3-4. There is a slight risk of excessive rainfall for parts of southeastern New Mexico Nov. 1-2; northern Texas, much of Oklahoma, southeastern Kansas, and southwestern Missouri Nov. 2-3; northern Texas, central, eastern, northeastern, and southern Oklahoma, eastern and southeastern Kansas, northwestern Arkansas, central, northern, and western Missouri, southern Iowa, and western Illinois Nov. 3-4; and far northeastern Texas, eastern Oklahoma, northern and western Arkansas, much of Missouri, northern and western Illinois, and far southeastern Iowa Nov. 4-5.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of a slight risk of severe thunderstorms (the second lowest level on a five-tier scale) across parts of far southeastern New Mexico and west-central Texas Nov. 2-3 and for parts of northern and north-central Texas, central Oklahoma, central Kansas, and far southern Nebraska Nov. 3-4.

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.