Strong Winds and Heavy Rain to Slam Mississippi and the Mid-South: Advisories in Effect

Photo byNational Weather Service

Wind Advisory and Flood Watch Issued as Tropical Depression Francine Approaches

MEMPHIS — Issued by the National Weather Service at 3:24 AM on September 12, 2024.

As Tropical Depression Francine advances, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Memphis has issued a Wind Advisory and Flood Watch affecting parts of East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee. Residents are urged to prepare for potentially hazardous weather conditions including strong winds and heavy rainfall that could lead to localized flooding.

Wind Advisory in Effect: Gusts up to 45 mph Expected

A Wind Advisory remains in effect from 9 AM this morning to 1 AM CDT Friday, with northeast winds expected to reach 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 45 mph. The affected areas include East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee. These strong winds pose risks of blowing unsecured objects and downing tree limbs, which may lead to scattered power outages. Drivers of high-profile vehicles are advised to exercise extra caution as the winds could make driving conditions challenging.

Precautionary Measures: Secure Loose Items and Use Caution

Residents should secure any outdoor items such as patio furniture, trash cans, and decorations to prevent them from being blown away. Additionally, caution is advised while driving, especially for those in high-profile vehicles that could be more affected by gusty winds.

Flood Watch: Heavy Rain from Francine to Soak the Region

Alongside the Wind Advisory, a Flood Watch is also in effect from 7 AM CDT this morning through this evening. Rainfall from Tropical Depression Francine is anticipated to range between 3 to 6 inches, with localized amounts potentially exceeding these totals, especially in urban areas. Affected areas include Lee County in Arkansas, and DeSoto, Marshall, Benton, Tippah, Alcorn, Tishomingo, Tunica, Tate, Prentiss, Panola, Itawamba, and Yalobusha counties in Mississippi.

Flood Risks: Urban Areas and Low-Lying Regions Vulnerable

Excessive rainfall could lead to flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas, posing significant risks to urban zones particularly susceptible to water accumulation. The NWS advises those living in flood-prone locations to monitor forecasts closely and be prepared to take immediate action should conditions worsen.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please stay tuned for the latest updates from your local news channels or NOAA All Hazards radio. For more local weather and news updates, follow Thumbwind Publications. Your helpful comments are welcome.