The Memorial Day weekend is set to begin with a significant thunderstorm and heavy rainfall system affecting the south-central United States, according to weather forecasts. As of Saturday, May 24, hundreds of thousands of residents across Oklahoma and parts of Arkansas were under a severe thunderstorm watch. The threat of severe storms extends from the southern Plains to the Southeast, with isolated severe storm risks even in South Florida, as highlighted by the Storm Prediction Center.
Forecasters warn that these storms could lead to frequent lightning, strong wind gusts, hail, and a possibility of tornadoes. Moreover, flash flooding poses a serious danger, particularly in urban areas and along low-lying roads and streams.
Over the course of the Memorial Day weekend, the central part of the country anticipates ongoing rain and storms. According to the National Weather Service, scattered thunderstorms are also likely in the Great Lakes region and Northeast, although the rain is expected to taper off by Memorial Day.
A stationary front will affect weather patterns from the Southeast to the Northern Plains, bringing ongoing showers and the potential for heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flash flooding in these regions. Significant rain amounts could lead to localized flooding, especially in areas that have already seen water accumulation from prior storms. The rainfall is projected to reach rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour in southeastern Kansas, southwestern Missouri, and northern Arkansas.
AccuWeather reports that over 4 million people were on alert for flooding risks starting May 24, wherein rainfall may exceed a month’s worth within just days. This situation creates potentially life-threatening conditions for those near waterways, especially for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Additionally, 2025 is marked as the most active tornado season in over a decade, with over 900 preliminary reports of tornadoes confirmed by late May. States like Mississippi, Illinois, Missouri, and Texas lead with the highest numbers, each reporting around 87 to 97 tornadoes. Recent tornado activity has tragically resulted in fatalities, with over two dozen lives lost in mid-May storms across Kentucky and Missouri.
As the weekend unfolds, communities are urged to stay informed and prepare for the adverse weather conditions ahead. It’s a reminder of the importance of preparedness and staying connected with local weather updates to ensure safety during such tumultuous times.