07 Mar 2023 | 03:55 PM UTC
US: Adverse weather forecast across south-central regions through at least March 10
Severe weather forecast across parts of the south-central US through at least March 10. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
An enduring spell of heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of the south-central US through at least March 10. Heavy rainfall is forecast to develop over parts of Oklahoma late March 7 before spreading eastward across the Southern Plains to the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee valleys from March 8. Rainfall totals of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) are expected over parts of Oklahoma and Arkansas March 7-8, and could trigger flooding, especially once more widespread rainfall arrives across the region from late March 8. The National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a slight risk (level 2 on a four-tier scale) of excessive rainfall across parts of central and eastern Oklahoma, northwestern and western Arkansas, and far southwestern Missouri March 7-early March 8. A moderate risk (level 3) of excessive rainfall is in place for parts of eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas March 8-early March 10 and central Arkansas March 9-early March 10. A slight risk of excessive rainfall is in place for areas surrounding the moderate risk area through early March 10. Authorities will likely update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days as the storm progresses and weather conditions change.
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. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
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 also 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 likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-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.
