Memphis, TN – Residents across West Tennessee, eastern Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel are being urged to stay weather aware as multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms are expected Saturday, June 13, into early Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, a low-to-medium risk of severe weather exists across much of the Mid-South, with scattered severe thunderstorms possible during two separate periods beginning Saturday afternoon.
Forecasters indicate the first round of storms is expected between approximately 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. Saturday. A second round may develop overnight between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday as additional disturbances move through the region.
The greatest threat from these storms is expected to be damaging straight-line winds capable of producing power outages, downed tree limbs and localized property damage. Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph in the strongest storms.
Large hail up to quarter size is also possible, though the tornado threat currently remains low. Heavy rainfall may accompany stronger storms, creating localized flooding concerns in low-lying and poor-drainage areas.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed portions of eastern Arkansas, the Missouri Bootheel and West Tennessee under a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for severe weather, indicating scattered severe storms are possible.
Cities within or near the higher-risk zone include Jonesboro, Dyersburg, Union City and surrounding communities. Memphis remains near the southern edge of the more favorable severe weather corridor, though strong storms are still possible across the metropolitan area.
Meteorologists say storms will generally move from north-northwest to south-southeast throughout the event.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, especially overnight when many people are sleeping. Officials also advise securing outdoor objects and seeking sturdy shelter immediately if severe thunderstorm warnings are issued.
Additional forecast updates are expected throughout the day as storm timing and intensity become clearer.
