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Dangerous Flooding Looms for Huge Swath of US
28 Sep
Summary
- Tropical moisture from hurricane remnants will cause days of heavy rainfall.
- A hybrid storm system poses a significant flash flooding risk.
- Widespread rain expected from Arizona to Chicago, heaviest in Texas.
A significant weather system is set to bring several days of heavy rainfall and potential flooding to a large portion of the central United States. This event is driven by the interaction of tropical moisture from the remnants of Hurricanes Odalys and Polo with an approaching upper-level low-pressure system. Forecasters warn of a considerable risk for flash flooding as these systems combine to create a new, hybrid storm.
The National Weather Service has issued flood watches through September 30 across the Southwest U.S. Areas particularly at risk for considerable flash flooding include New Mexico and western Texas starting September 28 and continuing into mid-week. Other parts of the Southwest may also experience flash flooding, especially near burn scars, low-water crossings, and in areas with complex terrain.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated from Arizona through Chicago, with the most intense bands expected in Texas, eastern Arizona, Oklahoma, southwestern Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska. Some locations could receive up to 8 inches of rain. By September 29 and 30, eastern Nebraska and western Iowa could see flash, urban, and river flooding. Central Texas and southern Oklahoma may face similar impacts mid-week.
Residents are advised to be cautious of potential flooding, especially in areas with saturated ground or those that have recently experienced significant rainfall. The National Weather Service urges people to avoid traveling through flooded areas, emphasizing the 'turn around, don't drown' safety message.
