Memphis, Tennessee – Severe storms and heavy rainfall could impact parts of the Mid-South on Saturday as a cold front moves through the region, according to the National Weather Service in Memphis.
Forecasters say scattered severe storms are possible from around 5 a.m. through 6 p.m. Saturday, with the primary threat being damaging wind gusts. Storms will generally move from northwest to southeast across the region during the day.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the Mid-South in a marginal risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather, with a slight risk (Level 2 of 5) extending across parts of north Mississippi, including areas near Clarksdale, Oxford, and Grenada.
In addition to strong winds, some storms may produce large hail and quick spin-up tornadoes, though those threats are considered secondary.
Heavy rainfall is also expected to accompany the storms. Forecast rainfall totals across much of the region are expected to range between 0.5 and 1.5 inches, with higher localized amounts possible, especially across eastern Arkansas and northern Mississippi.
Because of the potential for intense rainfall in short periods, parts of the Mid-South are under a slight risk for excessive rainfall, which could lead to scattered flash flooding.
The greatest flood risk is expected across north Mississippi and portions of eastern Arkansas, where saturated ground and heavier rainfall could lead to rapid runoff, flooding on roadways, and rising small streams.
Officials urge residents to stay weather aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings throughout the day.
Drivers are reminded to never drive through flooded roads, as water depth and road conditions can be difficult to determine.
Meteorologists say conditions should begin improving Saturday evening as the cold front pushes out of the region.
