The weather across the United States on Tuesday, September 22, is marked by the risk of excessive rainfall in New Mexico and western Texas, where precipitation could trigger flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) also forecasts storms in other parts of the country.
On Monday, a low-pressure system and a front moved through the center of the United States toward the Ohio Valley and the Mid-Atlantic coast. The storms left rain in several areas, and some places faced a risk of flash flooding. There was also a chance of strong storms in parts of the Southeast.
For Tuesday, the NWS maintains a moderate risk of excessive rainfall in parts of the southern Rocky Mountains, the southern Great Plains, and the Southwest. New Mexico and western Texas are among the areas that should watch precipitation. The rain could be intense and cause water to accumulate on streets, low-lying areas, and areas near streams.
In the East, rain tied to the system that moved through Monday could continue during the early hours of Tuesday in parts of the Mid-Atlantic coast. The activity will decrease or shift as the system advances.
The NWS also warns that the risk of heavy rain in New Mexico could last through Wednesday. Areas that receive rain Tuesday should therefore remain alert to new warnings and possible flooding. The weather service recommends checking advisories from local offices, avoiding crossing flooded streets, and staying away from streams and low-lying areas during storms. If a flood warning is issued, it is important to follow instructions from authorities and seek a safe place.
In El Paso, the Texas Department of Transportation called on drivers to review road conditions before any trip, given the forecast of intense rain and possible flash floods this week. The safest option during severe weather is to stay home if possible, according to the agency.
For those who must drive, TxDOT recommended checking that windshield wipers work, keeping the gas tank full, and carrying a basic safety kit. Drivers can consult road status, crashes, and street flooding through the TxDOT website.
Ana McCranie, public information officer for TxDOT in El Paso, told KFOX14/CBS4 that drivers who find themselves on the road in bad weather should pull over if they can do so safely. “If you find yourself on the road in the rain and the weather conditions are adverse, if you can, pull over safely,” McCranie said. “If you think you can drive in those conditions, then definitely pull over safely, turn on your emergency lights. And most importantly, do not get out of the car. Many people think they have to get out of the car, but the safest thing is to stay inside.”
The official emphasized that the most important thing is not to leave the car and that while many people believe they should get out, remaining inside is safest.
