24 Jun 2022 | 09:36 AM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across North-Central regions through at least June 25
Severe weather forecast across parts of the North-Central US through June 25. Tornadoes and flooding possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across North-Central parts of the US through at least June 25. Thunderstorms will likely be accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong winds, hail storms, and possible tornadoes. Heavy rainfall may result in floods and flash floods, especially over low-lying areas or areas close to water bodies.
Government Advisories
As of early June 24, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings over parts of eastern South Dakota and northern Minnesota due to ongoing heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and high river levels in these areas. A flood advisory has also been issued for parts of northern Kansas.
The National Weather Service's (NWS's) Storm Prediction Center has warned of a "Slight Risk" (Level 2 on a five tier-scale) of severe thunderstorms for parts of northern Kansas and southern Nebraska early June 24, as well as for parts of central and northeastern South Dakota and central Minnesota. There is an "Enhanced Risk" (Level 3) of severe thunderstorms June 24-25 for parts of eastern North Dakota, northeastern South Dakota, and northwestern Nebraska. There is a "Slight Risk" (Level 2) of severe thunderstorms for the same period for areas surrounding the Enhanced Risk area, including parts of central North Dakota, central and eastern South Dakota, southwestern, central, and northern Minnesota, western Iowa, and central and eastern Nebraska.
Severe storms in the "Enhanced Risk" (Level 3) regions are forecast to be more numerous, persistent, and widespread than those in the region where a "Slight Risk" (Level 2) has been issued. Storms in the Slight Risk regions are not forecast to be widespread or long-lived. Isolated intense storms are possible, which may contain hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes; however, widespread damage is unlikely.
NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a "Slight Risk" (Level 2 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall over parts of eastern North Dakota, northern and central Minnesota, and far northeastern South Dakota June 24-25.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
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.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days and tornado warnings advising the public to shelter in place. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
Transport
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 could also 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 likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may 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 weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Review contingency plans and be prepared to move quickly to shelter if tornado warnings are issued. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
