Intense weather conditions affect central and southern areas during Memorial Day weekend.
A nationwide temperature divide and the threat of severe weather are expected this holiday weekend. While cool temperatures prevail in the Northeast and Midwest, warm conditions will dominate the western and southern U.S. However, regions in the Plains and South face imminent threats of heavy rain, flash flooding, and severe thunderstorms.
Whether it's strong winds, large hail, or isolated tornadoes, the southern Plains brace for severe thunderstorms, particularly in the High Plains. Heavy rain is not as significant a concern in this region, but ongoing wet conditions could aggravate flash flooding risks, especially with intense storms.
The Gulf Coast and the Lower Mississippi Valley, along with parts of the Southeast, are anticipated to experience severe thunderstorms. The main risk encompasses isolated damaging winds, followed by the possibility of large hail.
In the Texas Panhandle, the threat of severe thunderstorms looms large. The potential for occasional severe hail and winds exists, while the risk of large hail and isolated tornadoes cannot be ignored.
Multiple rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms are forecast to sweep across the TX panhandle to Alabama throughout the weekend. Flash flooding was earlier reported in portions of eastern Oklahoma and southwestern Missouri, and further flooding could develop where the heaviest rain falls.
A Flood Watch remains in effect for northeastern Oklahoma, southeastern Kansas, southwestern Missouri, and northern Arkansas, including cities like Tulsa, Springfield, and Little Rock. Up to 6 inches of rain is forecasted through Monday in these areas, with locally higher amounts possible.
Meanwhile, the Northeast and Midwest can expect pleasant yet cool temperatures over the weekend. Gradual improvements in weather conditions are expected in the Northeast, and dry, comfortable conditions will dominate dry, hot, and sunny conditions in parts of the Southwest.
Travelers in the southern Plains and Gulf Coast should be aware of severe weather conditions this weekend, as heavy rain, strong winds, large hail, and even isolated tornadoes are expected. In contrast, the Northeast and Midwest can anticipate pleasant yet cool temperatures, while the Southwest will enjoy dry, hot, and sunny conditions.
