US: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions Nov. 18

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the southern US Nov. 18. An intense storm system is expected to bring heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms, and strong winds across the southern and central plains over the coming hours; lightning, hail, and 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 early Nov. 18, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings, tornado watches, severe thunderstorm warnings and watches, flood watches and advisories, and high wind warnings and advisories across parts of the affected area.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms (the middle level on a five-tier scale) for parts of northern Texas and southern Oklahoma and a slight risk of severe thunderstorms for surrounding areas and west-central and northern Texas and southern and central Oklahoma Nov. 18. The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a slight risk of excessive rainfall (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) across much of the affected area Nov. 18.

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.