Two sprawling storm systems are tracking from the Rockies to the Great Lakes, bringing prolonged periods of heavy rain, severe thunderstorms, and flooding concerns to much of the country. The multi-day weather pattern began in the Southwest and is gradually shifting east, impacting more than 30 states from the Plains to the East Coast. 

Outlooks & Timing

This evening's outlook covers areas from east Texas through Alabama, with a level 2 (slight) risk from Huntsville, TX to Montgomery, AL, meaning storms are expected to be slightly more widespread, stronger, and could last longer. All modes of severe weather (wind, hail, and tornadoes) will be possible. The tornado potential is at a level 2 from Louisiana through central Alabama

Warm and moist air is expected to keep the atmosphere unstable, and daytime heating has helped increase the instability enough to lead to scattered severe storms. Those storms could intensify later this evening, with some persisting into the overnight. Be sure to review your tornado safety plan and have multiple ways to get severe weather alerts that can wake you up!

Severe storms will remain possible through Saturday afternoon, including the continued threat for tornadoes. The tornado threat for Saturday stretches from New Orleans through Atlanta.

Rain & Flooding

Rainfall rates are increasing significantly this evening across the south, with 1-2" per hour possible, possibly more. This means some areas could receive 4-6 inches in a short period of time, leading to a flash flooding potential. A Flood Watch remains in place for portions of the South through Saturday.

The WPC has issued a level 3 outlook for excessive rainfall (flash flooding) for today, with areas from Louisiana through east Tennessee most likely to see flooding develop. If you live in a flood-prone location, review your flooding plan to seek higher ground if flood waters threaten.

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