Hurricane Helene Approaching: What to Expect in the Mid-South
As we wake up here in Memphis, the news is buzzing with updates about Hurricane Helene, which has just been upgraded to a Category 1 hurricane. This powerful storm is making its way towards the Florida Peninsula and will soon be knocking on our door as it heads north towards Tennessee. It’s predicted to make landfall on Thursday, September 25, and our region will likely start feeling its effects soon after.
When Will the Rain Start?
If you’re wondering when to expect the rain, the forecast indicates that heavy rain will begin on Thursday evening and continue through Saturday evening. The National Weather Service is predicting that Memphis could see around 2 to 3 inches of rain over this period. If you’re further north in Union City, brace for a bit more—there’s a chance you could get around 3 to 4 inches of rain!
It’s important to remember that while Helene is expected to weaken as it moves inland, significant rainfall is still likely. In fact, there’s a good chance that a flood watch might be issued either Wednesday evening or Thursday morning. The grounds might get extra soggy, making the potential for flooding more concerning.
What About Winds and Flood Risks?
Alongside the rain, we should also prepare for strong winds. West Tennessee is bracing for an elevated risk of high winds and heavy downpours as we ride out the storm. The National Weather Service has indicated that on Thursday, we may face a marginal risk of scattered flash floods, which could escalate to a slight risk by Friday. Keep an eye out for areas like urban neighborhoods, roadways, and small streams, which are particularly vulnerable to flooding.
North Mississippi Gets a Break
On the flip side, folks in North Mississippi should breathe a sigh of relief as projections show they might see less rain, with predictions indicating no more than about an inch. It’s always nice to be the ones who catch a break during storm season!
What Lies Ahead for Hurricane Season
But here’s the kicker—hurricane season isn’t over yet! It officially runs from June 1 to November 30, meaning we still have about two months left of possible tropical storms and hurricanes. So, even if Helene passes through with less intensity, we all need to stay vigilant and prepared as the season continues.
Stay Prepared!
As we gear up for another weather event, it’s wise to prepare your homes and make sure you have an emergency kit ready—just in case. Also, it’s a good time to check on your neighbors, especially those who might need extra help during these storms.
Let’s keep our fingers crossed that Hurricane Helene doesn’t bring too much trouble our way. In the meantime, let’s stay informed and watchful! Together, we’ll weather this storm and any storms to come.
