Much of the South is experiencing unusually dry conditions, even drought in some areas. Fortunately, a low-pressure system is forecast to bring essential rainfall from Friday through Sunday.
However, with the rainfall comes an increased risk of flash flooding, which might persist throughout the weekend.
This winter has been particularly dry; nearly 20 areas have recorded their driest winter ever, while over 200 locations rank among the top ten driest. The Southeast is hit hardest, and several major Southern cities have seen nearly 6 inches less rainfall than usual. States like Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia are grappling with severe to extreme drought conditions.
From now until Sunday, a widespread 1 to 3 inches of rain is anticipated.
A disturbance moving from Baja California into the Southwest and Southern Plains is part of the weekend forecast, according to weather predictions.
As it travels through the southern U.S., a low-pressure area will develop and extend into the Southeast.
This system could bring significant rain and thunderstorms to the region.
Currently, we’re looking at 1 to 2 inches of rain expected from the Southern Plains all the way to the Southeast Coast.
Localized rain amounts of 2 to 3 inches could occur in parts of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia.
On Friday, flash flooding risks in parts of Oklahoma and Texas are flagged at Level 1 on a scale of 4. The danger zone will extend into Arkansas by Saturday and into Sunday morning, with a flash flood risk level increasing to 2 out of 4.
By Sunday, the risk will shift southeastwards, reducing back to Level 1 out of 4. A Level 1 out of 5 severe weather risk has also been issued for all of West Texas late Friday as this low-pressure system establishes itself.
While the atmosphere has ample warmth and moisture, the storm’s lower energy might limit its severe potential overall.
Severe storms are anticipated to persist Saturday, particularly affecting eastern Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The most intense storms are expected to develop along a straight line, impacting major cities like Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio by Saturday afternoon.
Wind damage appears to be the primary concern as the storm unfolds, according to forecasts.
