Severe Weather and Flash Flood Threats Grip the South
Multiday Wet Weather Pattern Brings Danger to the Region
Millions of people across the South are bracing for the perilous combination of severe weather and flash flooding as an unrelenting wet weather pattern continues to unleash torrential rain from Texas to the Gulf Coast and into the Southeast.
Elevated Flood Risk Shifts Across the Region
The flash flood risk has been a moving target, shifting eastward with each passing day. South and Central Texas endured a deluge of rain on Monday, followed by East Texas, which became the epicenter of heavy downpours and thunderstorms starting Tuesday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a dire Level 3 out of 4 flash flood risk for regions of East Texas, northwestern Louisiana, and southwestern Arkansas on Tuesday. This encompasses areas north of Houston, stretching into Shreveport, Louisiana, and reaching just south of Little Rock, Arkansas, placing residents in these areas under a heightened state of alert.
This heightened flood risk will gradually migrate eastward on Wednesday, affecting cities like Lake Charles in Louisiana, Jackson in Mississippi, and the vicinity of Birmingham, Alabama.
While the threat of flash flooding may diminish slightly on Thursday, it remains a significant concern for New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast to the Florida Panhandle, with potential impacts extending northward into the Mississippi Valley, the Southeast, and East Tennessee.
Flood Alerts Issued Across the South
Flood alerts have been issued across the South, forming a vast network of warnings stretching from Texas to Tennessee as waves of moisture push eastward. Flood Watches encompass areas from East Texas, including Bryan and Lufkin, through most of Louisiana, southern Arkansas, the majority of Mississippi, northern Alabama, and portions of southern Tennessee.
Flood Warnings have also been put into effect due to runoff causing river levels to rise, adding to the urgency of the situation.
Severe Weather Potential on Tuesday
While the primary focus is on the heavy rain and flash flooding, there is also a risk of severe weather across the region on Tuesday.
The NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has designated millions of people from the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas to western Louisiana under a Level 1 out of 5 severe thunderstorm risk. This includes major cities like Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Austin, and Houston in Texas, as well as Alexandria and Lake Charles in Louisiana, amplifying the danger posed by this weather event.
The potential hazards include tornadoes, damaging wind gusts, and large hail, posing a significant threat to property and life.
Rainfall Forecast for the Southeast and Gulf Coast
According to the FOX Forecast Center, a vast swath of the Gulf Coast and Southeast is expected to receive substantial rainfall, with totals ranging from 3-5 inches, and isolated areas potentially reaching up to 10 inches.
Both Houston and New Orleans are included in the excessive rainfall zone, where totals could reach around half a foot by the end of the week.
While the anticipated rainfall may provide some relief to communities experiencing a precipitation deficit, it also exacerbates the risk of flooding and its associated hazards.
Stay Informed and Take Precautions
Residents in the affected areas should maintain a heightened state of awareness, staying informed about the latest weather updates and adhering to any warnings or instructions issued by local authorities.
It is crucial to be prepared for potential flooding by securing loose objects, moving valuables to higher ground, and having an evacuation plan in place.
When encountering flooded roadways, it is essential to remember the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Driving through flooded areas poses significant risks and should be avoided.
The safety of individuals and communities during this weather event is paramount. By staying vigilant and taking necessary precautions, the impacts of the severe weather and flooding can be minimized.
Additional Tips for Staying Safe:
– Listen to local radio or TV stations for updates and instructions.
– Have a battery-powered radio and flashlights on hand in case of power outages.
– Stock up on food, water, and other essential supplies.
– If you must evacuate, do so early and to a safe location.
– Avoid driving through flooded areas.
– Be aware of the risk of downed power lines and trees.
– Stay informed about the latest weather conditions and forecasts.
By following these guidelines, individuals and communities can navigate this challenging weather event with greater safety and resilience, minimizing the impact of the severe weather and flooding.