US: Adverse weather forecast across the South and Ohio Valley through early April 5

Event

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the South and Ohio Valley through early April 5. The National Weather Service's (NWS) Storm Prediction Center has warned of a moderate risk (level 4 on a five-tier scale) of severe thunderstorms late April 4 for parts of northeastern Missouri, southeastern Iowa, and northwestern and western Illinois. The is an enhanced risk of severe storms for surrounding areas of northern Missouri, central, eastern, and southern Iowa, northern and western Illinois, and southwestern Wisconsin, as well as a separate area of enhanced risk across parts of northeastern Texas, southeastern Oklahoma, most of northern and central Arkansas, and southern Missouri. There is a slight risk of severe storms forecast for the rest of the impact area. Damaging winds, hail, and possible tornadoes may accompany the storms. The storms may also be accompanied in places by heavy downpours. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The severe weather may contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Flight disruptions are also possible. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather will also likely trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

National Weather Service