Severe Storms and Tornado Warnings Across Mid-South Raise Alarms
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A tornado warning has been issued for Western Lafayette County on Saturday, April 5, as severe storms move through the region, prompting urgent alerts for residents to seek shelter. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Memphis announced that as of 5:46 PM, the warning is in effect until 6:15 PM CDT.
A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was detected over Pope, Mississippi, or near Batesville shortly before 5:30 PM. In response, the university issued a REBALERT, strongly urging individuals to find safe shelter immediately.
The situation has since escalated, with the NWS extending the tornado warning to 6:45 PM. Severe conditions continue throughout the evening, as multiple storm warnings are broadcast across the region.
Local meteorologists are particularly concerned about damaging winds, with gusts potentially reaching up to 80 mph. A Moderate Risk (Level 4 out of 5) has been declared for both the afternoon and evening hours, heightening the threat of tornadoes, large hail, and severe flooding.
“Today is a dangerous weather day,” said Matt Laubhan, Chief Meteorologist for a local station. “Residents should remain vigilant and have multiple options to receive alerts.” He added that rainfall could accumulate to 10-15 inches along key regions, increasing the risk of catastrophic flooding.
In addition to tornado warnings, flash flood advisories are currently in effect across significant portions of East Arkansas and West Tennessee, including counties such as Crittenden, Cross, and Shelby. The heavy rainfall has already led to warnings indicating life-threatening flash flooding in urban areas, streams, and other flood-prone regions.
By 6 PM, emergency management officials noted that 2 to 4 inches of rain had already fallen, and additional amounts of 1 to 3 inches are expected. The advisory underscores the hazards of driving through flooded areas, with reminders to turn around and avoid floodwaters.
Authorities noted that some locations, including Bartlett, Southaven, and Germantown, are at risk of experiencing severe flooding conditions. If residents find themselves in a flooded area, they are advised to seek higher ground immediately.
As the situation develops, school events across the Mid-South, including proms, have been postponed due to severe weather forecasts, and families are being urged to stay safe. Local officials emphasize that the potential for considerable damage exists along with the high likelihood of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, particularly this afternoon and tonight.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware as the storm system continues over the region, impacting communities with its unpredictable patterns and severe weather hazards.
