A powerful storm will impact much of the central and eastern United States this weekend, bringing a mix of snow, heavy rain, and severe weather.
Severe Storms in the Southeast
Starting Saturday night and continuing into Sunday, dangerous storms will hit parts of the Southeast, including East Texas, the mid-South, and much of the region. The main threats include damaging wind gusts and possible tornadoes.
The National Weather Service has issued a Level 3 out of 5 severe storm risk for about 5.3 million people in cities such as Memphis (Tennessee), Jackson (Mississippi), Tuscaloosa (Alabama), and Shreveport (Louisiana).
Flash Flooding Expected in Several States
Heavy rain will fall across the Southeast and Ohio Valley, leading to dangerous flash flooding from Saturday into Saturday night. Rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches or more are expected in parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia.
The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center has issued a Level 4 “extreme” flash flood warning for areas in northwestern Tennessee and southwestern Kentucky. This type of high-risk warning is rare but has led to nearly 40% of flood-related deaths in the U.S.
Flood Watches are already in place for 900 miles, stretching from Arkansas to Pennsylvania, covering 11 states. Some areas could experience moderate to major river flooding, especially in Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee.
Snowstorm to Hit Midwest and Northeast
This storm will also bring heavy snow to at least 20 states from the Midwest to New England. The system, which first hit California with rain and mountain snow, is strengthening as it moves east.
Snow will begin Friday in the northern and central Plains, moving into the Upper Midwest on Friday night and Saturday. It will then spread into the Northeast by Saturday night.
Cities expected to get at least 3 inches of snow include Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Buffalo, Albany, Boston, and Portland (Maine). Some areas in central New York and New England may see over a foot of snow.
Strong Winds and Power Outages Possible
Along with rain and snow, strong winds between 40-65 mph will move across the Southeast on Saturday, then spread into the Northeast on Sunday and Monday. These winds could knock down trees and cause power outages.
Stay prepared and monitor local weather updates for the latest warnings and advisories.
