Millions across the United States are bracing for a dangerous mix of severe weather, icy conditions, and relentless storms that could disrupt holiday travel and festivities into the weekend. AccuWeather meteorologists are warning of significant threats across the South, Southeast, Northeast, and Northwest regions.
A potent storm system is forecast to deliver flooding downpours, hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes across the southern U.S. through Sunday.
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Severe Storms Sweep Across the South
Thursday: Eastern Texas to western Louisiana is at moderate risk for severe thunderstorms. Winds could reach 75 mph in localized areas
Friday: Storms will shift eastward to southeastern Louisiana and parts of central Alabama, bringing heavy rain, hail, and strong winds up to 60 mph.
Saturday: The risk of tornadoes returns as storms spread into Memphis, Nashville, and Montgomery.
Sunday: Severe thunderstorms will reach central Florida, eastern North Carolina, and southeastern Virginia. Most storms are expected to move offshore by late Sunday night.
“This week’s severe weather will bring all modes of danger, including flooding, hail, and isolated tornadoes,” said AccuWeather Meteorologist Gwen Fieweger. “Holiday travelers should remain vigilant and prepared for disruptions.”
Freezing Rain and Icy Roads in the Northeast
Parts of the Northeast will experience freezing rain and icy conditions as moisture from the storm system moves east.
Thursday Night–Friday Morning: Patchy freezing fog and icy patches may develop in central Pennsylvania, upstate New York, and the mountains of West Virginia and Maryland.
Friday Night–Saturday Morning: A brief period of freezing rain is expected in parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and New England, creating slick spots on roads, especially bridges and overpasses.
Warming Trend: Milder air will limit snow in many areas, but travel disruptions remain likely due to icy conditions.
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Northwest Faces Flooding and Avalanche Risks
The Pacific Northwest continues to endure relentless storms, raising the risks of flooding, mudslides, and avalanches.
Rainfall: Up to 8 inches of rain is expected in northwestern California and southwestern Oregon through Sunday night, with a localized maximum of 18 inches.
Snowfall: Some mountains in Oregon and Washington could receive up to 2 feet of snow.
Avalanches: Freezing and refreezing of water-laden snowpacks will increase the risk of avalanches in the Cascades.
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“Flooding and mudslides are a growing concern due to the already saturated ground,” said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys. “Holiday travelers in the region should be prepared for delays and hazards.”
As severe weather sweeps across the country, AccuWeather urges families and travelers to monitor local forecasts, prepare for potential delays, and heed any warnings from emergency officials.
For real-time updates and weather alerts, visit AccuWeather.com.
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