Severe storms, flash flooding, and extreme heat are forecast to impact regions across the Plains, Midwest, and South this weekend, posing risks for World Cup fans, athletes, and vacationers alike.
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Flood watches remain in effect across the South, affecting regions such as eastern Texas, Louisiana, southern Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, as the remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur advance through the area.
Preliminary rainfall in Louisiana on Friday may have broken state records, with previous highs at 22 inches of rain in 24 hours. Reports indicate that Cottonport received 29 inches, while Plauchsville noted 22 inches and Simsport, near the Atchafalaya River, recorded 17 inches.
Additional heavy rain is forecast this weekend for parts of Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, already affected by storms earlier in the week, risking further flash flooding. According to the National Weather Bureau, “significant localized flash flooding is likely due to the moist air mass and saturated soil conditions.”
Thunderstorms threaten the Plains and Midwest, posing risks for Saturday night’s World Cup match between Ecuador and Curaçao in Kansas City. Flood watches are issued for Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, and Indiana as storms may result in hazardous flooding conditions.
Thunderstorm activity is expected across eastern Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado, with possible tornadoes, large hail, and wind gusts reaching up to 125 mph.
By Sunday morning, the National Weather Service anticipates the storm moving east across the Midwest, with new storms developing along a slow-moving warm front, extending the flash flood threat eastward.
In contrast, other southern regions are bracing for extreme heat and humidity. A heat advisory is issued for southeast Texas, where the heat index could soar to 108°F.
World Cup players and fans in Houston may likewise contend with oppressive heat during Saturday night’s match between the Netherlands and Sweden.
The National Weather Service advises residents to “stay hydrated, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and limit strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon.” Heat advisories are also applicable in Louisiana, southern Alabama, and southern Florida.
A mix of severe weather this weekend could cause challenges for travelers. The Transportation Security Administration anticipates over 3 million passengers will navigate TSA checkpoints on Sunday alone, with high volumes expected throughout the long weekend.
Source: www.nbcnews.com