Atlanta, Georgia – The Southern United States is facing severe weather threats as thunderstorms continue to develop and pose risks of flooding, damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes through Saturday. Nearly 15 million people in the region, including parts of Atlanta, are under flood alerts as the storms intensify.
A widespread threat for severe thunderstorms and significant flooding is unfolding from the southern Plains to the Southeast, with the storm system strengthening and tracking eastwards. Thunderstorms are already impacting areas from far eastern Texas to Alabama, prompting flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings.
A tornado watch has been issued for southern Louisiana, southern Mississippi, and southwestern Alabama, including cities like Hattiesburg, Mobile, and New Orleans, with the possibility of large hail, damaging gusts, and a tornado risk. The storm system is expected to bring torrential rain and potential tornadoes as it moves east.
The risk of severe thunderstorms continues to expand over the Southern US, with cities like Shreveport, Jackson, and Mobile under Level 2 of 5 risk. In addition to the severe weather threats, a Level 3 of 4 risk for flooding rainfall is in place for parts of Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, including the Atlanta metro area that already experienced significant flooding earlier in the week.
As the storm continues to move east, the potential for damaging winds, flooding rainfall, and tornadoes remains high. Parts of the East Coast are expected to be affected by the storm on Saturday, with the Northeast possibly experiencing a mix of rain, ice, and snow. Drier conditions are expected to follow as the storm exits the region on Sunday, though some areas may still see lingering precipitation.
Overall, the Southern US is bracing for continued severe weather threats, with the potential for dangerous conditions to persist through the weekend. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period of heightened weather activity.