A major severe weather outbreak is expected to hit the Deep South this weekend, bringing a heightened risk of damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued an enhanced risk warning for severe thunderstorms across a broad area, stretching from Louisiana to Georgia and extending north into Tennessee and Kentucky.
According to meteorologists, the severe weather event will likely begin on Saturday, February 15, as a powerful storm system moves through the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that some tornadoes could be EF-2 strength or higher, posing a significant threat to life and property.
Severe Storm Setup and Expected Impact
The severe weather outbreak is being driven by a strong low-pressure system developing over the Appalachians. A trailing cold front will interact with warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, creating favorable conditions for thunderstorms and tornadoes.
A squall line—a fast-moving line of severe thunderstorms—will likely develop over East Texas on Saturday evening. As it moves eastward, it will intensify, bringing damaging wind gusts of up to 65 mph and possible tornadoes to parts of Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia.
The SPC’s storm risk map indicates a 10 percent or higher tornado risk in the enhanced risk zone, with some tornadoes potentially long-tracked and intense. Residents in these areas should stay alert and have a safety plan in place.
Areas at Highest Risk
The states most at risk for severe weather on Saturday include:
- Louisiana: Areas such as Baton Rouge and Shreveport could experience strong thunderstorms, damaging winds, and potential tornadoes.
- Mississippi: Cities like Jackson and Tupelo are at risk of large hail and destructive tornadoes.
- Alabama: Birmingham and Montgomery could see a significant impact from the storm system.
- Georgia: Atlanta and surrounding areas may experience strong winds and isolated tornadoes.
- Tennessee & Kentucky: While the tornado risk is lower in these areas, strong storms are still expected.
Government Warnings and Preparedness Tips
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises residents in the affected regions to prepare for potential power outages and property damage. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) urges people to monitor weather alerts and have multiple ways to receive emergency notifications.
Key Safety Measures:
✔ Know your shelter location: Identify a safe place in your home, such as a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor.
✔ Stay informed: Tune in to local weather stations or visit the NWS Weather Alerts page for real-time updates.
✔ Prepare an emergency kit: Include essentials like flashlights, batteries, food, water, and a first-aid kit.
✔ Have a communication plan: Ensure family members know how to contact each other in case of separation during a storm.
Cold Front to Follow Severe Storms
Once the storm system moves through, a strong cold front will push across the region, bringing a drop in temperatures. While the coldest air will stay north of the Gulf States, residents can expect cooler-than-normal temperatures early next week.
The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center indicates that some areas in the Deep South could see overnight lows dipping into the 30s and 40s, a sharp contrast from the warm, humid conditions fueling this weekend’s storms.
Conclusion
With an elevated tornado risk and the potential for widespread damage, residents across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee should take this storm system seriously. Officials urge everyone to stay weather-aware, follow safety guidelines, and be prepared for sudden changes.
For the latest updates, visit the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center and check local news sources. Stay safe and be prepared for severe weather this weekend.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
