Severe Weather Threatens Memorial Day Weekend Travel Across Southern U.S.

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — Severe weather may disrupt Memorial Day weekend travel for millions in the Southern U.S. An estimated 13 million people from Texas to Alabama are at risk for severe storms this Saturday, particularly in cities like Memphis, Denver, Birmingham, and Oklahoma City.

Large hail and damaging winds are the main concerns, with thunderstorms already impacting parts of southeast Oklahoma and northeast Texas. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in place until 4 p.m. ET, as storms in the area have the potential to produce 70 mph winds and hail up to 2 inches in diameter.

As of 2 p.m. Saturday, parts of Missouri reported between 1 to 3 inches of rainfall, with some areas receiving over 5 inches. Meteorologists note conditions are favorable for tornadoes, especially over central Oklahoma, as storms are expected to linger into the night.

By Sunday, predictions indicate that around 15 million people will still be under the threat of severe weather. Memphis, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Birmingham will remain in the path of large hail and damaging wind gusts, along with a risk for tornadoes.

The strongest storms are forecasted for the Texas Panhandle and western Oklahoma, with a Slight Risk for severe weather extending into Texas for Memorial Day, affecting around 9 million residents in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Flash flood alerts have been issued for parts of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, warning residents of potential flooding from accumulated rainfall of 4 to 6 inches in some areas.

Weather experts advise travelers to be cautious as conditions may lead to flash flooding over the holiday weekend. The Transportation Security Administration reported a spike in travel, screening over three million travelers on Friday, marking it as one of the busiest travel days on record.

Cooler temperatures are expected across the Northeast and Midwest on Monday, ranging from the 50s to 70s, while the western and southern parts of the U.S. will experience warmer conditions. The rainfall will significantly affect parts of the Southern Plains and nearby regions, with improved conditions projected for the Northeast.

Authorities recommend travelers arrive at airports at least two hours early due to the high volume of passengers expected over the holiday weekend.