College Park, Md. – Multiple weather hazards will unfold across the United States Monday, with severe thunderstorms expected in the Upper Midwest, a growing tropical threat along the Gulf Coast and areas of flash flooding from the Southwest to portions of the Southeast.
According to the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, Tropical Depression Two is forecast to gradually strengthen as it moves across the Gulf. Tropical storm conditions could begin affecting portions of the Florida Panhandle late Monday, while areas along the eastern and central Gulf Coast face an increasing risk of heavy rain and flash flooding through Thursday.
Across the Midwest, a strong cold front will trigger severe thunderstorms from Iowa, southern Minnesota, Wisconsin and northern Illinois on Monday. Damaging wind gusts, large hail and isolated tornadoes are possible, with the greatest severe weather threat centered from eastern Iowa into southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois before storms advance east.
By Tuesday, the severe weather threat is expected to shift into parts of the Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic, where additional strong thunderstorms may develop along the advancing front.
Heavy rainfall capable of producing flash flooding is also possible across central and northern Arizona, where monsoon moisture continues to support slow-moving thunderstorms. Localized flooding may occur in burn scar areas, slot canyons, washes and urban locations. Additional pockets of heavy rain are possible along portions of the Carolina coast and across the central Gulf Coast as tropical moisture increases.
Residents in areas expecting severe weather should review safety plans, secure outdoor items and ensure multiple methods are available to receive watches and warnings. Those living in flood-prone locations should remain alert for rapidly changing conditions and never drive across flooded roads.
Forecasters expect additional updates as Tropical Depression Two strengthens and confidence improves on the timing and location of severe thunderstorms. Watches and warnings may be expanded as conditions evolve through the week.
