Thunderstorms Threaten Memorial Day Travel Across U.S.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Thunderstorms are expected to disrupt travel plans for over 45 million people this Memorial Day weekend, according to AccuWeather. From May 22 to 26, many Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home, with this year projected to set a new record for Memorial Day weekend travel.

Forecasters predict thunderstorms from Montana and North Dakota south through Texas and east to South Carolina on Memorial Day. This severe weather could pose risks for travelers and could disrupt parades and celebrations.

Rain is also expected in the Northeast and parts of the West, such as Oregon. However, much of the Western U.S. will experience warm conditions. Heavy rain has already affected areas in the Southern Plains leading into this busy travel weekend, raising concerns about flash flooding.

As of Friday, flood watches remain in effect for southeast Kansas, northeast Nebraska, southwest Missouri, and northwest Arkansas, with some warnings expected to last through the holiday. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Springfield, Missouri, reported, “Several rounds of showers and thunderstorms will occur Friday night through Monday, with total rainfall amounts of 2-5 inches and localized amounts up to 8 inches.”

AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines told Newsweek that western Kansas, western Texas, and western Tennessee are areas of significant concern for weekend travelers. “That’s a zone where I think if you’re traveling in the upcoming days, that’s probably where you’re going to have the most severe weather,” he said.

Kines warned that heavy rain could create a life-threatening flood risk for campers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Ozarks this weekend. The NWS stated, “Severe thunderstorms are expected across portions of the central into southern Plains into Sunday, with large hail and severe gusts the main threats. Heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding will return to the south-central U.S. Friday into this weekend.”

Many states will remain under flood watch through the holiday as additional storms are forecast for the weekend and Monday.