Severe Weather Alert Issued in Mid-South as Storms Approach

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A High Risk (5/5) for severe weather has been issued for parts of the Mid-South, signaling the potential for widespread, life-threatening conditions. The Storm Prediction Center has categorized this as the highest risk level, indicating that dangerous storms are expected to develop later today and into Thursday.

According to meteorologists, the region should prepare for severe thunderstorms capable of producing long-lived tornadoes, particularly across northeast Arkansas, the Bootheel of Missouri, and northwest Tennessee. “These storms are expected to rapidly intensify, warranting serious attention,” said John Doe, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Memphis.

Officials have issued multiple warnings to residents in affected areas. A Wind Advisory has been set from 7 AM to midnight CDT, predicting gusts up to 50 mph, which could cause tree limbs to snap and power outages. Additionally, a Flood Watch is active through Saturday, with anticipated rainfall that could exceed 8 inches in some locations.

Local forecasts detail a severe weather timeline: severe storms are likely this afternoon, with a tornado threat that may persist into the pre-dawn hours on Thursday. Rainfall is expected to remain heavy through Thursday night, turning into flooding as conditions worsen. According to the National Weather Service, areas with saturated soil face increased risks of flash flooding.

“Flooding becomes particularly dangerous due to rising waters from continuous rainfall, potentially making some routes impassable,” cautioned Doe.

The 7-day outlook shows Wednesday temperatures peaking at 85°F with a 90% chance of storms this evening. As the week progresses, conditions may stabilize by Sunday when drier weather is expected.

Officials urge the public to monitor forecasts closely and be ready to act should flooding warnings be issued. The Office of Emergency Management recommends that residents living in low-lying areas prepare for potential evacuations in particular sectors.

For real-time alerts, residents can download the FOX13 Memphis app, which provides breaking news updates in their local areas.