Houston, TX – Communities across the Southwest and Southeast United States will continue to see heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and flooding risks through the Labor Day weekend, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Prediction Center.
The persistent precipitation has been fueled by a slow-moving frontal boundary and multiple atmospheric disturbances, which have triggered widespread showers and thunderstorms over the past several days.
States at Highest Risk
Regions in New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama are expected to be hit hardest, with some areas seeing rainfall totals of three inches or more.
A Flash Flood Watch has been issued for approximately 1 million residents in the Ark-La-Tex region, covering parts of Interstate 30 east of Dallas, Texas, and southwest of Little Rock, Arkansas.
The National Weather Service (NWS) cautioned that excessive runoff could flood rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas, creating hazardous travel and safety conditions.
Severe Weather Possibilities
While flooding remains the primary concern, forecasters also warned of potential severe thunderstorms capable of producing hail and damaging wind gusts. Any storm also carries the risk of dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning.
The wet weather zone includes much of the Interstate 10 corridor, stretching from New Mexico through Florida, where millions of people are expected to travel this weekend. Beachgoers heading to the Gulf Coast and fans attending the first college football games of the season could face storm disruptions.
Lightning Safety Concerns
Forecasters highlighted the dangers of lightning during outdoor activities. Lightning can strike 10 to 12 miles away from a storm, with documented cases reaching nearly 25 miles.
According to NOAA, lightning kills about 23 people annually in the United States and injures hundreds more. Data from the National Lightning Safety Council shows that fishing remains the most dangerous activity linked to lightning fatalities, followed by boating, camping, cycling, and yard work.
In 2023, more than 240 million lightning bolts were recorded nationwide, according to data from Vaisala, a global technology company. Experts estimate the odds of being struck by lightning are about 1 in 1,222,000.
Safety Tips During Flooding and Storms
Officials urge residents and travelers to take precautions:
- Avoid driving through flooded roads; as little as one foot of water can sweep away vehicles.
- Seek shelter indoors when thunderstorms approach, and avoid open fields or water activities.
- Stay updated on weather alerts through the National Weather Service or local emergency notifications.
- Families should prepare emergency kits in case of power outages or road closures.
Are you traveling or spending time outdoors this Labor Day weekend in areas at risk of flooding or storms? How are you preparing? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
