High Winds and Heavy Rain Expected: Tennessee & Mid-South Under Wind Advisory and Flood Watch

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.

The Mid-South is bracing for severe weather as Tropical Depression Francine moves inland, prompting the National Weather Service in Memphis to issue a Wind Advisory and Flood Watch. The advisories cover portions of East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee, with impacts expected from this morning through early Friday.

Wind Advisory: Gusts Up to 45 mph Anticipated

A Wind Advisory is in effect from 9 AM this morning to 1 AM CDT Friday, bringing northeast winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. This advisory affects areas including Clay, Greene, Craighead, Poinsett, Mississippi, Cross, Crittenden, St. Francis, Lee AR, Phillips, and several counties in Southeast Missouri and West Tennessee. These strong winds could blow around unsecured objects, knock down tree limbs, and cause a few power outages.

Precautionary Measures: Secure Loose Items and Drive Carefully

Residents are urged to secure any loose outdoor items and exercise caution when driving, especially in high-profile vehicles. Windy conditions can make driving difficult, and visibility could be reduced by blowing debris.

Flood Watch: Heavy Rainfall Poses Flood Risks

In addition to the Wind Advisory, a Flood Watch is in effect from 10 AM CDT this morning through this evening. Rainfall from Tropical Depression Francine is forecast to range from 3 to 6 inches, with localized higher amounts possible, particularly in urban areas prone to flooding. The Flood Watch covers parts of East Arkansas, including Crittenden, Cross, Mississippi, Poinsett, and St. Francis, as well as portions of West Tennessee such as Benton TN, Carroll, Chester, Crockett, Decatur, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Lauderdale, Madison, McNairy, Shelby, and Tipton counties.

Flood Precautions: Stay Alert and Be Prepared for Quick Action

Residents in flood-prone areas should monitor weather updates closely and be prepared to take immediate action if flooding develops. Flooding could impact rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas, and urban flooding may occur where heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems.

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.