Memphis Prepares for Impact as Hurricane Francine Brings Heavy Rainfall and Flood Risks

Memphis Braces for the Aftermath of Hurricane Francine

Memphis, Tenn. — As the remnants of Hurricane Francine make their way through the Mid-South, residents are preparing for a significant weather shift that could bring with it heavy rainfall and strong winds. The hurricane made landfall on Wednesday evening in Louisiana as a Category 2 storm, and it’s now on a path north along Interstate 55 heading straight towards our area.

A Wet Wednesday Ahead

By Wednesday afternoon, the forecast is predicting isolated showers and thunderstorms in parts of north Mississippi. However, things are expected to ramp up as rain spreads into the greater Memphis area by later in the evening. Early Thursday morning, you can expect a full-blown rain event to kick off, bringing widespread rain and winds gusting up to 20 mph.

At 1 a.m. on Thursday, a flood watch will be in effect until 7 p.m., which means that residents should be vigilant and prepare for potential flooding, especially in urban areas and locations known for poor drainage.

Todd Demers’ Forecast

WREG’s own weather expert, Todd Demers, has his eye on the sky and predicts that the heaviest rain will pour down from around noon Thursday until midnight. Those who have outdoor plans need to be cautious, as the remnants of Francine are expected to stall right over the Memphis area, with rain continuing into Friday.

The good news? By Saturday, just in time for the much-anticipated Southern Heritage Classic and the Cooper-Young Festival, things should start to dry out. Todd predicts only a 20% chance of rain on Saturday, allowing many to enjoy the festivities without being drenched from above.

Rainfall Expectations

According to the National Weather Service, this storm could bring about four to five inches of rainfall in some regions, raising concerns about flash flooding. Low-lying areas and spots that typically struggle with drainage might see the worst of it. So, if you’re in these areas, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on local conditions and have a plan just in case.

Stay Prepared!

With heavy rain also comes the risk of downed tree limbs and possible power outages. It’s wise for residents to prepare accordingly, stock up on essentials, and charge your devices. A small number of spin-up tornadoes could also develop, so keeping an ear out for weather alerts is crucial during this time.

In summary, as we welcome the remnants of Hurricane Francine, it’s essential to stay informed, be cautious, and prepare for what could be a wet and wild few days ahead in Memphis! Just keep in mind that by Saturday, we may be back to sunny skies and festivities. Until then, make sure to stay safe and dry!