A powerful storm system is wreaking havoc across the lower Mississippi, Kentucky, and Tennessee valleys this weekend, bringing a dangerous combination of severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and torrential rainfall that could lead to catastrophic flooding.
“The severe weather event has the potential to produce multiple tornadoes in the EF0 to EF1 range,” warned AccuWeather Severe Weather Expert Guy Pearson. “Some of the strongest tornadoes with the upcoming event from later Saturday to Saturday night will probably reach EF2 to EF3 intensity.”
The region is facing a particularly dangerous situation due to the timing of the storms, with many expected to hit after dark, reducing visibility and increasing the risk for those who may be asleep and unaware of the approaching danger. The hilly terrain and low-hanging clouds could also make tornadoes harder to spot.
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The severe weather threat extends from northeastern Texas to Kentucky, Tennessee, southern West Virginia, western North Carolina, and northern and central Georgia. Strong tornadoes, capable of uprooting trees, snapping tree limbs, and causing significant property damage, are possible. Mobile homes are particularly vulnerable to severe damage or destruction from tornadoes.
In addition to the tornado threat, the storm is bringing torrential rainfall, leading to widespread flash flooding. Many areas could see 2-4 inches of rain, with some locations in Tennessee and Kentucky receiving up to 8 inches. This intense rainfall, combined with already saturated ground from previous storms, is creating a dangerous situation for flash flooding, particularly in urban and hilly areas.
As of Saturday afternoon, a nearly 500-mile stretch of flash flood warnings was in effect from eastern Arkansas to eastern Kentucky, indicating that serious flooding was already occurring. Several swift water rescues have been reported, and numerous roads are impassable due to high water.
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“Motorists are strongly urged not to attempt to drive through flooded roads,” emphasized AccuWeather. “Water levels may still be rising, and the road beneath may have been washed away.”
The heavy rainfall is also causing significant rises on rivers in the region, with moderate to major flooding expected on some secondary rivers in Kentucky and Tennessee. The combined rainfall from multiple storms this week could reach 20 inches in some locations, leading to prolonged flooding concerns.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take precautions, stay informed about weather updates, and heed any warnings or evacuation orders issued by local authorities.
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