Mother’s Day plans may need to be moved indoors due to an approaching slow-moving storm that is expected to bring heavy rainfall and potentially strong thunderstorms to the region over the next few days, according to meteorologists at AccuWeather. The storm’s circulation will draw moisture-rich air from the Gulf, increasing the threat of flooding from persistent downpours. While the rainfall is beneficial for some areas, it may be excessive in a short period, with localized rainfall amounts exceeding 8 inches by early next week.
AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski warned that heavy rain could significantly slow down travel to and from Mother’s house, with reduced visibility and the risk of highway ponding on routes like Interstates 10 and 20. Following heavy rain and flooding in the lower Mississippi Valley, the storm’s downpours have now spread across the Southeast and are expected to persist for several days.
After affecting the Gulf Coast on Mother’s Day, the storm will move northward, bringing rain and thunderstorms to the Tennessee Valley, the Carolinas, Appalachians, and mid-Atlantic region. Some areas may experience intense rainfall rates, potentially overwhelming storm drainage systems. AccuWeather forecasts at least 2 inches of rain across nearly a dozen states, with localized amounts of up to 10 inches possible in parts of northern Florida, southeastern Alabama, and southern Georgia.
In a region where 3 to 4 inches of rain is typical for May, this storm could double that amount in just two days, posing an increased risk of flooding in urban areas, highways, and waterways. While the rain is disruptive to Mother’s Day celebrations and outdoor activities, it is much-needed for areas facing moderate to severe drought conditions, as indicated by the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report.
Coastal flooding is also a concern as the storm tracks along the Eastern Seaboard, particularly during high tide cycles. In addition to flooding, isolated severe thunderstorms are possible due to favorable atmospheric conditions, including moisture, energy, and atmospheric instability.
Overall, the storm system is expected to bring significant rainfall and potential hazards to the Southeast and Eastern Seaboard through the early part of the week, impacting various outdoor events and activities. Stay informed with AccuWeather updates and be prepared for changing weather conditions in your area.
“Several of these storms may also produce isolated damaging wind gusts and hailstones.” AccuWeather.com
Following the development of waterspouts and tornadoes, as well as bringing strong winds to the Florida panhandle on Saturday, thunderstorms are expected to increase in coverage on Mother’s Day, reaching metropolitan areas as far north as Birmingham, Alabama, and Savannah, Georgia. By Monday, millions more in the north near Metro Atlanta and in the south around Orlando and Tampa, Florida, will face the risk of severe storms. While heavy rainfall causing flooding remains the main concern with these storms, the possibility of isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out. AccuWeather.com
Drier and calmer weather will gradually return to much of the Southeast by the middle of the week, starting in some areas on Wednesday, along with a rise in temperatures as the heat that has been affecting parts of the West and the country’s midsection moves eastward.
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