Severe Weather Alerts: Flash Floods and Record Snowfall as Major Storm Unfolds
A large storm is traversing the central U.S., causing extensive snowfall in New Mexico and flash flood risks in the South due to Tropical Storm Rafael. Record snowfalls have been noted, while the Northeast is bracing for weekend rainfall amid elevated wildfire risks in drought-stricken areas. Heavy surf conditions are also expected along the Gulf Coast. The storm poses multiple severe weather threats across various regions.
A significant storm system is currently affecting the central United States, leading to a variety of weather phenomena, including flooding rains, severe thunderstorms, and substantial snowfall in the Rocky Mountain region. New Mexico has experienced an early-season snowstorm, accumulating over three feet of snow, with areas such as Angel Fire reporting 40 inches, just shy of their single-storm record. Meanwhile, Las Vegas, New Mexico has seen 31.7 inches of snow, setting a new record for the region. In addition to winter weather, the system is bringing increased rainfall in the South and Gulf Coast, directly influenced by Tropical Storm Rafael, which continues to circulate with 50 mph winds. This storm is forecasted to generate localized flash flooding, particularly in Louisiana, where some areas may receive up to eight inches of rain. The storm’s effects will also include high surf risks along the Gulf Coast, with wave heights reaching seven feet. Meanwhile, the wildfire risk remains elevated in certain areas of California, although conditions have improved enough this weekend to slow the fire growth. Conversely, a Red Flag Warning has been issued for parts of six northeastern states due to dry weather, with wind gusts of up to 35 mph increasing the potential for rapid fire spread. Rain is expected to reach the Northeast by Sunday night, providing some much-needed moisture to a region suffering from severe drought conditions.
The current weather situation is marked by a powerful storm moving through the central United States, which has sparked various severe weather alerts. Notably, the early season storm has dumped considerable snow across parts of the Rockies, particularly in New Mexico, setting records in several locations. Concurrently, Tropical Storm Rafael impacts the southern states, contributing to flooding risks and rough seas along the Gulf Coast. There are also ongoing wildfire concerns in the West and elevated fire risks in the Northeast, underscoring the diverse and extreme weather challenges posed by this storm.
In summary, the significant storm affecting the central United States is responsible for a multitude of weather-related hazards, including heavy snowfall, flooding rainfall, and increased wildfire risk. With Tropical Storm Rafael not posing an immediate threat but rather contributing to excessive rainfall forecasts, the South faces a heightened flash flood threat, particularly in Louisiana. As the storm progresses, the Northeast anticipates some rainfall relief, although the drought conditions will not be substantially alleviated in the immediate future.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
