Storms to Bring Drought Relief and Tornadoes to Southern U.S.

Starting Monday Night

Forecasters warn residents of the area that Monday and Tuesday are expected to bring the worst threats of damaging thunderstorms. This storm, which originated in the Pacific Ocean, has made its way across the U.S. after hanging out on the California coast, and will continue to pick up moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and Southern Atlantic Ocean.

Residents in Shreveport, Louisiana, Little Rock, Arkansas, Jackson, Mississippi, and the metro area of northeast Houston were advised to be on high alert Monday night. Forecasters expected hail, tornadoes, and up to 70 mph winds.

Nocturnal tornadoes, which can be even more dangerous than tornadoes during the day due to the uncertainty, were also a concern Monday night.

By Monday night, rain, strong winds, and wintry weather are expected to expand across parts of the Great Lakes region, and head into the Northeast on Tuesday.

The Southern U.S. will continue to get slammed with severe weather conditions, and major cities like Atlanta, Georgia will be at risk.

Heavy downpours, hail, and damaging winds could reach as far as South Carolina and the Florida Panhandle on Tuesday and into Tuesday evening. These conditions are likely to cause some airline travel delays, and any damage done by the winds could create poor driving conditions for motorists.

Rain to Bring Drought Relief

While this weather may pose a problem for residents and travelers of the areas, the rain will bring much needed moisture to drought-stricken places. As of November, the U.S. Drought Monitor classifies 75% of Louisiana and 50% of Mississippi under "exceptional drought".

In just a few hours, at least 1-3 inches of rain are expected to fall, with potentially higher amounts in areas with more severe thunderstorms.

Although areas such as Tennessee and into the southern Appalachians may not see particularly severe weather, they will still get some much needed rain. Anyone traveling through the zones between I-10 and I-40 are advised to stay aware and be careful as the rain could cause poor visibility and hydroplaning.

Good news as we look further into the week though as Thanksgiving Day is expected to bring drier conditions.