Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Southern US
Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued across multiple southern states as a massive weather system brings the potential for tornadoes, damaging hail, and strong winds.
Residents in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas are urged to stay vigilant as the storm continues to develop, with the National Weather Service (NWS) describing it as a high-impact event.
What You Need to Know
The NWS has flagged areas from east Texas to Alabama as the highest risk zones, with West Alabama under a ‘moderate risk’ alert.
1:10am CST #SPC Public Severe Weather Outlook #PRO concerning #alwx #lawx #mswx #txwx pic.twitter.com/QZXwpQwOZe
— NWS Storm Prediction Center (@NWSSPC) December 28, 2024
Severe thunderstorm watches are currently in place until noon on December 28, 2024, but conditions could extend or intensify as the day progresses.
- Tornadoes: Several areas are at risk for tornado formation, with some storms already showing rotation on radar.
- Hail: Reports suggest hailstones could reach up to 2 inches in diameter in the most affected regions.
- Winds: Gusts exceeding 70 MPH are expected, posing threats to property and power lines.
States Under Severe Thunderstorm Warning
The following states are experiencing severe weather warnings and need to prepare for possible disruptions:
- Louisiana: Thunderstorms with heavy rain and wind gusts are moving through the northern regions.
- Mississippi: Central areas face high risks of tornado activity and significant hail damage.
- Alabama: West Alabama is under a ‘moderate risk’ alert, with widespread power outages likely.
- Arkansas: Severe thunderstorms are bringing hail and tornado threats across the eastern parts.
- Oklahoma: High winds and scattered storms are expected throughout the state.
- Texas: Eastern Texas faces the brunt of the storm, with multiple counties under active tornado warnings.
Emergency services are on high alert, and officials have advised residents to secure outdoor items, prepare for power outages, and avoid unnecessary travel.
How to Stay Safe
If you’re in an area under a severe thunderstorm warning, here are some tips to stay safe:
- Have a weather radio or smartphone alerts turned on to receive real-time updates.
- Identify the safest area in your home, such as a basement or interior room, to shelter in case of a tornado.
- Avoid windows and stay indoors until the storm passes.
- If driving, pull over and avoid overpasses during hail or tornado threats.
- Secure outdoor furniture or objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
This weather event is part of a broader pattern affecting the central and southern United States, with more storms predicted throughout the week. Experts will release additional updates as conditions evolve, including potential flooding in areas with heavy rainfall.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor the situation closely, urging residents in the affected states to remain alert. Severe thunderstorm warnings serve as a reminder of how quickly weather can change and the importance of preparation in minimizing risks.
Sophie Daniels is a weather expert with a passion for decoding complex climate patterns and forecasting trends. With a background in meteorology, she offers accurate, engaging updates to keep readers informed about storms, temperature shifts, and climate change impacts worldwide.
