Ice-skating Extravaganza In The Center, Flood Warning Concert In The South!
Icy travel conditions persist across central US as South braces for flood threat
So, the South is having a grand ol' time with a multi-day Rain and Thunderstorm extravaganza. Flood watches are like party invitations—more than 30 million people are on the list from Texas to the Tennessee Valley. Dry soil's getting a surprise soak, causing flash flooding fun, especially in drought-ridden Texas.
Meanwhile, in the central US, freezing rain and snow are turning roads into ice rinks. Perfect for impromptu car figure-skating! Airports are the new cancellation hotspots, making everyone's travel dreams come true.
California's not missing the weather drama. Floods in San Diego led to a state of emergency. Quick tip: swimming to work might be faster.
But wait, there's more! Moisture from the Gulf is throwing a week-long rain party in the South. Bring your umbrellas and a canoe, folks. Winter weather alerts are the latest fashion up north, with icy roads turning driving into a chilly adventure. Stay warm, stay dry, or just move to a desert.
A prolonged period of severe weather is impacting various regions in the United States, leading to significant challenges and potential hazards. Here's a summary of the latest updates:
**Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding in the South:**
- A multi-day siege of heavy rain and thunderstorms is posing a serious risk of flash flooding across the South.
- Flood watches cover an extensive area, from eastern Texas to the Tennessee Valley, affecting more than 30 million people.
- Dry soil in drought-stricken areas may be overwhelmed, resulting in additional flooding. On Monday, heavy rainfall caused flash flooding in Texas, particularly in San Antonio.
- The threat of flash flooding is particularly high in Louisiana and Mississippi, with a Level 3 out of 4 risk for excessive rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday.
- Widespread rainfall totals of 4 to 6 inches are expected, with higher amounts near the Gulf of Mexico. Parts of Louisiana and Mississippi could experience nearly double-digit rainfall by the end of the week.
- Drought conditions in the affected areas, covering over 80% of Mississippi and more than 90% of Louisiana, exacerbate the flash flood risk.
**Wintry Mix and Travel Issues in the Central US:**
- Freezing rain and scattered snowfall are creating perilous travel conditions from parts of the Midwest to the interior Northeast.
- Ice-glazed roadways and potential power outages are concerns through Tuesday night.
- Air travel may be hampered, as seen with delays and cancellations at airports like Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and St. Louis Lambert International Airport on Monday.
- Winter weather alerts cover around 13 million people across the Great Lakes and Northeast, emphasizing the need for caution and avoiding non-essential travel.
**California Flooding and State of Emergency:**
- Winter storms continue to impact the West, with California experiencing flooding that prompted hundreds of rescues in San Diego.
- The mayor declared a state of emergency, and Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in San Diego and Ventura counties to support recovery efforts.
- Cleanup and recovery are underway, with damage assessments being conducted, and temporary shelters established for the displaced and homeless.
**Upcoming Weather Patterns:**
- Moisture from the Gulf of Mexico is fueling drenching storms in the South through midweek, with the highest flood risk on Tuesday and Wednesday.
- While rain intensity may decrease after Wednesday, steady rounds of rain are expected to persist across parts of the South for the entire week.
- In the Great Lakes and Northeast, winter weather alerts last into Wednesday, with a continued threat of icy conditions.
Overall, the weather situation demands heightened awareness, precautions, and preparedness in the affected regions, as both flash flooding and icy conditions pose significant challenges to residents and travelers.
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