Severe Weather Strikes Mid-South, Causing Floods and Tornado Damage

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Mid-South is grappling with severe weather aftermath following a powerful storm system that swept through the region over the weekend.

As of Sunday morning, residents are facing ongoing flood warnings and scattered showers. Historic rainfall levels exceeding 10 inches have led to significant river flooding, particularly along the Wolf River, where some areas have reported more than a foot of rain.

“We are still monitoring serious flooding in the east and southeast parts of the region, and advisories will remain in effect until further notice,” a spokesperson from the National Weather Service said. The office has issued multiple flood warnings for various rivers in Tennessee, indicating that moderate flooding is ongoing.

According to the latest data, East Memphis recorded 14.07 inches of rain, while Memphis International Airport registered 12.35 inches. With the excessive rainfall, the flooding is anticipated to worsen as runoff continues into next week.

In addition to flooding, tornado-warned storms have caused damage in Middle Tennessee, affecting areas like Madison and Dickson. Jessica Cruz, a local resident, witnessed the storm’s destruction first-hand. “Thank goodness no one was here or hurt. It could have been our apartment,” she said, reflecting on a partial collapse of a nearby business, Line-X.

Damage reports from the tornado include a partially torn-off roof at an apartment complex in Dickson and a collapsed equipment shed on a family farm in Gallatin. Kingston Springs also experienced tree damage, with one tree falling onto a home.

The weather forecast for the upcoming week promises a brief respite from the rain, as temperatures are expected to drop significantly. Cooler, dry weather is projected for Monday through Wednesday, though patchy frost could affect colder areas. However, rain chances are likely to return by Thursday.

As communities begin to recover from this weekend’s weather, officials remind residents to remain vigilant. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads,” emphasized the National Weather Service. “Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Emergency agencies continue to monitor the situation, providing updates as needed. As of now, families, especially those in high-risk areas, are urged to stay informed and prepared for any potential emergencies in the coming weeks.

Weather forecasts will remain critical as the region navigates the aftermath of extensive rainfall and storm damage, impacting local infrastructure and the lives of residents.