Severe Threat Looms Over the South: Tornadoes, Flooding, and Damaging Winds Expected

Over the next few days, a dangerous stretch of severe weather will be unfolding across the southern tier of the country. The primary threats are heavy rain, flash flooding, strong winds, and the risk of tornadoes that will impact millions. The severe weather has been impacting the southern plains all week.

An area of high pressure sits across south Texas, increasing the upper level winds over the southern plains. At the surface, a frontal boundary, stretching from the Southern Plains to the Southeast, will be persistent over the same regions through Saturday. 

On Saturday, there is an Enhanced Risk of severe storms across parts of Alabama and Mississippi. The primary threats will be damaging winds and hail.

Heavy rainfall remains a critical concern, with hourly rates surpassing one inch in many areas. This raises the alarm for flash flooding, especially in urban centers and low-lying zones with poor drainage. Portions of Tennessee and Kentucky face an flash flood threat due to expected rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches, or more in isolated pockets. In the next seven days, Oklahoma and Texas could pick up an additional 2-5" of rain with isolated heavier totals.

A Flood Watch has been issued for parts of Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Missouri. As we have reminded everyone quite a bit, remember TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN. Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain weather-aware, keep emergency kits ready, and identify safe shelter locations in case conditions deteriorate. This event is part of a relentless storm season that has already caused significant damage and loss of life across several states. For ongoing updates, forecasts, and safety information, tune into WeatherNation TV.