The National Weather Service in Memphis has issued a Flood Watch effective through late tonight due to the possibility of flooding from excessive rainfall. The advisory covers a broad swath of the Mid-South, including East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee. With widespread rainfall totals expected to be between 2 to 5 inches across the region, locals are being cautioned about potential floods.
Communities within the affected region, particularly those near creeks, streams, and low-lying areas are advised to stay on guard. The forecasted deluge of 6 to 8 inches in northwest Tennessee, particularly, poised to cause significant rises in area creeks and streams—could precipitate swift flooding, as noted by the National Weather Service on its website. These waterways already contend with high levels, inviting further risk with the added rain.
Memphis is currently experiencing fog and mist with a humidity standing at a staggering 96%, conditions that are a prelude to more severe weather set to sweep through the area. According to the detailed forecast by the National Weather Service, showers and possible thunderstorms are on the calendar for the weekend, with a steady temperature around 51 degrees and south winds gusting as high as 30 mph. Saturday alone could bring new rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch, setting the stage for what the National Weather Service deems a 100% chance of precipitation.
After the weekend's downpours, the week ahead promises a mix of cloudy skies and sunshine with temperature lows dipping to the mid-teens, signaling a respite from the rain. However, the NWS cautions that the already saturated ground may need time to recover, warning that the excessive runoff from this weekend's rains could provoke further flooding. Looking ahead to Washington's Birthday, the forecast is sunny with a high near 43, a stark contrast to the preceding weather's fury.
The National Weather Service advises residents in flood-prone areas to be prepared to act should flooding develop and to monitor further forecasts. They stress that flooding can endanger lives and property and urge the public to exercise caution. For more information on flood safety and preparation, the public can visit the National Weather Service website.
