Severe Storms and Flooding Threaten Southern U.S. This Week

AUSTIN, Texas — Severe weather is creating dangerous conditions across the southern United States, with the potential for tornadoes, heavy rain, and flooding from Texas to Louisiana this week.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration‘s Storm Prediction Center has issued severe thunderstorm watches for eastern Texas and western Louisiana, including the Houston area, due to the heightened risk of strong storms and possible tornadoes.

Forecasters warn that severe thunderstorms are already affecting parts of north and central Texas, along with southern Louisiana, as intense rainfall raises concerns about flash flooding. Rainfall rates are expected to exceed one inch per hour, particularly in regions east of Texas into Louisiana and central Mississippi.

“The weather situation is serious, and we’re advising residents to stay alert,” said a representative from the National Weather Service. “Inundation in urban areas and poor drainage locations may occur.” Localized rainfall could reach up to six inches in some areas.

On Monday afternoon, officials reported that a “school-aged” girl was swept away by floodwaters in Brenham, Texas. The incident occurred around 4:25 p.m. while she was walking home from school with her sister. Efforts by bystanders and police to rescue her proved unsuccessful.

A neighbor who witnessed the incident attempted a rescue but was unable to hold on to the child due to the swift current. Rescue teams have been mobilized to search for the girl.

As severe weather continues, about 40 million people are under various flood watches throughout the southern U.S. The storms have already prompted numerous reports of damaging winds and hail in ten states.

In addition to Texas and Louisiana, regions including the Texas Panhandle, Oklahoma, and parts of the Deep South are also expected to face heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms. Residents are urged to be cautious and avoid flooded areas. “Turn around. Don’t drown,” the National Weather Service advises.

As the weather system spreads eastward, areas along the East Coast are also at risk for severe storms, including parts of the Mid-Atlantic and northeastern North Carolina, where flash flooding may occur late Tuesday.

The situation continues to develop, and meteorologists are urging residents to monitor local forecasts for updates.