Jacksonville, Florida – A powerful storm system that wreaked havoc from Texas to the Florida Panhandle is now heading towards the East Coast, with the potential for more severe weather along the way. The storms on Wednesday were responsible for significant damage and claimed at least one life, as they spawned tornadoes and strong winds across several states.
The National Weather Service reported over 200 instances of severe weather between Tuesday night and Thursday morning, with multiple tornadoes touching down in Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama. These storms left a trail of destruction, cutting power to over 250,000 customers in the South on Wednesday and leaving more than 125,000 without power on Thursday. Flash flood warnings were issued in various areas, including New Orleans, Mobile, and Tallahassee.
As the storm system moves northeastward, the risk of severe weather shifts to the Ohio Valley and the East Coast. The Storm Prediction Center warns of damaging winds, hail, and potential flooding from Lake Erie to Tampa Bay. The greatest tornado potential is predicted for southeast Ohio and western West Virginia, while a tornado watch is in effect for central Florida to southeast Georgia.
The storms originated from a low-pressure system near the Gulf Coast, consolidating into a violent squall line that traveled over 650 miles, causing widespread damage along the way. Mississippi reported one fatality and multiple injuries, with homes damaged across the state.
Heavy rainfall, with totals exceeding 10 inches in some areas, led to flash flood emergencies near the Texas-Louisiana border, New Orleans, and Tallahassee. The water rise in Mobile Bay flooded roadways and stranded vehicles, highlighting the destructive force of the storms.
On Thursday, the severe thunderstorm threat continues as the low-pressure system moves towards the eastern Great Lakes. The Storm Prediction Center has issued Level 3 and Level 2 threat zones for parts of the Ohio Valley, Florida, and other regions, with the highest tornado risk in southeast Ohio and western West Virginia.
Persistent rainfall, potential flooding, and severe thunderstorms are forecasted for the central Appalachians and Mid-Atlantic, with strong winds expected as the storm system exits the region. The aftermath of the storm may bring more gusty storms and showers, with a new disturbance brewing on the West Coast.
Overall, the impact of the storm system is far-reaching and potentially dangerous, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and vigilance in the face of severe weather events.