US weather service warns of severe storms, flooding
The U.S. National Weather Service has issued warnings for severe storms and flooding across the Midwest and South, describing the situation as potentially “catastrophic” and “historic.” Here are key points about the weather event:
Impact Area: The storm system affects a broad region from Texas to Michigan, impacting millions of people.
Weather Conditions: Residents are bracing for heavy precipitation, strong winds, hail, flooding, and tornadoes.
Tornado Threat: The Storm Prediction Center has issued a “high risk” warning for severe weather, including the potential for EF3+ tornadoes in areas like Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and parts of Illinois and Missouri.
Flooding Risks
Rainfall Totals: Areas could receive up to 15 inches of rain by the weekend, leading to “generational” flooding.
Flash Flooding: The prolonged rainfall poses significant risks of life-threatening flash flooding, particularly in northeastern Arkansas, western Kentucky, and southern Illinois.
Affected Regions
High-Risk Areas: Cities like Memphis, Jonesboro, and Little Rock are in the high-risk zone for severe weather.
Moderate Risk Areas: Cities such as St. Louis, Cincinnati, Louisville, and Indianapolis are under a moderate risk warning.
Emergency Declarations: Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency in anticipation of the severe weather.
Public Alerts: Residents are advised to prepare for long-duration disruptions due to the anticipated rainfall and flooding.
