Travelers across the south-central United States should brace for hazardous conditions as repeating downpours and severe thunderstorms threaten to disrupt plans through the holiday week. Two powerful storm systems originating in the southern Rockies will bring risks of localized flooding, severe weather, and patchy fog across the region, just as millions prepare for Christmas travel.
Storm 1: Christmas Travel Disruptions
The first storm is set to push from Texas and Oklahoma on Tuesday to Arkansas and Louisiana by Christmas Day. While the risk of violent storms with tornadoes remains low, there will still be a significant threat of flash flooding, damaging wind gusts, and hail across the region.
“The risks will shift from Dallas in the morning on Tuesday to Austin and Tyler, Texas, during the late morning and afternoon, Santa and other travelers could have a bumpy ride around Houston Tuesday evening.”
The main concern lies in poor visibility and hazardous road conditions, including slick or flooded streets, particularly from central Texas to Louisiana and Arkansas. As the storm advances on Christmas Day, the risk of severe thunderstorms may decrease slightly. However, localized flash flooding will remain a concern, particularly from Louisiana and Arkansas to Mississippi, western Tennessee, and possibly western Alabama.
Storm 2: The Pattern Repeats
Just as the first storm weakens midweek, another storm will emerge from the southern Rockies on Thursday, triggering a repeat of the severe weather pattern. This second system is expected to bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and potentially severe thunderstorms from central and northeastern Texas to southeastern Oklahoma and across central and eastern Arkansas and Louisiana.
Travel Precautions
With heavy holiday traffic expected, travelers should remain vigilant for sudden changes in weather conditions and allow extra time for delays. Motorists in affected areas are urged to stay updated on weather alerts and road conditions, avoid flooded roadways, and be prepared for delays caused by reduced visibility and storm-related hazards.
We will continue to monitor these storms and provide updates as necessary to ensure travelers remain informed and safe. Sponsored By Mid Ark Construction
