Severe weather is disrupting Memorial Day plans across much of the southern and central United States, as multiple rounds of powerful thunderstorms sweep through the region. The National Weather Service has issued widespread flood watches and warnings, urging millions to remain alert and take precautions as heavy rainfall continues to batter communities.
Forecasters warned Monday that excessive rain and intense thunderstorms will stretch across the Southern Plains and into the Mississippi and Tennessee valleys, creating dangerous conditions throughout the day. Areas under flood watch include portions of Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas—regions already saturated from several days of rainfall leading up to the holiday.
Flash flood warnings were issued early Monday for parts of northeastern Texas near Tyler, Louisiana near Shreveport and Natchez, and several communities in Mississippi. Officials reported flash flooding was either ongoing or imminent in many of these zones. In Shreveport alone, more than 350,000 residents fell under the flash flood alert, with authorities urging anyone in flood-prone areas to seek higher ground immediately.
The National Weather Service cautioned that flash flooding could develop rapidly in small creeks, streams, and low-lying roadways—particularly underpasses and streets with poor drainage. Drivers were strongly advised to avoid water-covered roads, as the majority of flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles. Visibility concerns also rise after dark, making night travel especially risky.
The severe conditions have already impacted air travel, with Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport experiencing ground delays of nearly an hour due to thunderstorms. Other major regional airports—such as Little Rock’s Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport and Memphis International Airport—could also see flight disruptions, according to AccuWeather.
Rainfall rates may reach 1 to 3 inches per hour in some areas, with AccuWeather warning of “dangerous and potentially life-threatening conditions” due to flooding and runoff. The Ozarks, a popular recreational destination for the holiday weekend, has already seen flooding in parts of Missouri and northern Arkansas. Travelers in that region are advised to stay alert and prepare for weather-related delays or cancellations.
With storm systems continuing to sweep across the region, officials are reminding the public to monitor trusted weather sources and heed all local advisories. Memorial Day may be a time of remembrance and celebration, but in many areas, it’s also a day to stay safe and weather-aware.
