Mid-South Weather Warnings: Tornadoes, Floods, and Frost Expected

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A powerful spring storm system has left the Mid-South reeling from severe weather, prompting several emergency declarations and weather warnings across the region. As part of the fallout, a Frost Advisory is in effect for early Tuesday morning, with temperatures expected to drop to between 33 and 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

Residents are advised to protect sensitive outdoor vegetation from potential frost as temperatures stay below average, peaking in the upper 50s and near 60 degrees this afternoon with a wind chill factor of 10 to 15 mph. Rain chances are low, at less than 10%.

Governor Bill Lee has confirmed the state is grappling with extensive damages caused by tornadoes over the weekend that left at least five people dead. “While we know there are confirmed deaths, there may be others yet unreported,” Lee said during a news conference, emphasizing the dangers still present in Tennessee due to ongoing heavy rainfall.

As rainfall continues through the week, forecasts suggest additional flooding in areas along rivers in Tennessee. The Loosahatchie River at Arlington is under a flood warning, with minor flooding expected, as it recently reached a stage of 22 feet.

At the same time, the Wolf River at Germantown and Rossville is projected to see moderate flooding, prompting officials to flash warnings against driving in flooded areas. “Turn around, don’t drown,” state emergency officials remind the public.

Lake City, Arkansas, was severely impacted, with reports of a tornado destroying structures, including a bakery previously leveled by another tornado two decades ago. Residents are now embarking on recovery efforts amid conditions that remain dangerous.

Additionally, schools across the Mid-South have postponed proms and other events due to the harsh weather conditions leading to damaged infrastructures.

Tornado watches remain in effect throughout Shelby County and surrounding areas until late evening, with additional storms expected this week, complicating recovery efforts. The National Weather Service is closely monitoring river conditions and will provide updates as warranted.

The Mississippi River at Memphis is also under flood advisory as water levels continue to rise, with forecasts indicating possible elevation above flood stage this week.

Local officials are reinforcing calls for caution. “If your area is experiencing flooding, it’s best to stay put,” a spokesperson advised. “But if you must go on the road, drive cautiously and never attempt to traverse flooded areas.”