Severe thunderstorms are pummeling parts of the South on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, bringing the threat of powerful tornadoes, large hail, damaging winds, and life-threatening flash floods.
Over 30 million people are at risk across the region, which was already hit by deadly storms last week.
The Storm Prediction Center has warned of the potential for numerous to widespread severe thunderstorms across the central Gulf Coast states, including major cities like Baton Rouge and Jackson.
An enhanced risk area stretches from eastern Texas to western Alabama, with a moderate risk zone encompassing eastern Louisiana to western Mississippi.
“There are a lot of threats,” FOX Weather Meteorologist Britta Merwin said. “You want to stay close to home tomorrow.
The most significant hazards include:
- Strong tornadoes: The environment is particularly conducive to tornado development along the central Gulf Coast, with the possibility of EF-2 or stronger tornadoes.
- Damaging winds: Gusts exceeding 70 mph are likely, posing a danger to structures and power lines.
- Large hail: Very large hail is a major concern, especially across eastern Texas and western Louisiana.
- Flash flooding: Rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches are expected across the southern Mississippi Valley through Wednesday, with isolated amounts up to 7 inches. This could lead to dangerous flash flooding and river flooding.
“Tornadoes are a big deal for tomorrow (Wednesday),” Merwin warned. “The ingredients have a little more punch tomorrow, a little more grit into the system.
States Prepare for the Worst
In anticipation of the severe weather, many schools and government offices across the South have announced closures or early dismissals for Wednesday.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency, urging residents to prepare for the storms and stay informed.
“I encourage everyone to have a plan in place and to monitor their local weather forecast,” Edwards said in a statement. “It is important to take these threats seriously and to ensure that you and your family are prepared.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has also directed the state’s emergency management division to mobilize resources ahead of the severe weather.
The Burnet County solar eclipse festival, which was scheduled for Wednesday, has been canceled due to the forecast.
Storms to Shift East on Thursday
By Thursday, the severe storm threat is expected to move further into the Southeast and Ohio Valley, with the flood threat expanding from the Southeast to New England.
The most intense conditions are anticipated across the Appalachian Mountains.
As the dangerous weather unfolds, residents are urged to stay tuned to local news and weather alerts, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and be prepared to take shelter immediately if a tornado is spotted or a warning is issued.
Remember, nighttime tornadoes can be particularly deadly, so it is crucial to have a plan in place to quickly move to a safe location.
With the South still reeling from last week’s deadly storms, the region is bracing for another round of destructive weather. As the situation develops, stay informed and prioritize your safety and the safety of your loved ones.
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