Prepare for Possible Tornadoes, Hail, Wind, Warns Memphis NWS
MEMPHIS – The residents of Mid-South, encompassing the city of Memphis, should brace themselves for serious weather disruptions, which might manifest as showers and thunderstorms initially. As per the credible information from the National Weather Service, severe storms, possibly including tornadoes, are anticipated on Thursday, May 9.
Severe Weather Alerts & Predictions
The forecast indicates the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms in the early morning hours, starting from 4 a.m. through to 5 a.m., followed by possible showers and thunderstorms afterward. Some storms may reach severe levels with the potential to bring heavy, disruptive rainfall. Throughout this period, temperatures are expected to hover in the mid-80s.
There has been an increase in the risk of severe weather phenomena, intensifying to an enhanced risk level. The hazardous conditions that could be expected are immensely powerful winds having speeds greater than 80 miles per hour, hailstones exceeding 2 inches in diameter, an elevated probability of tornado formations, some of which might be exceptionally potent, and the looming threat of flash flooding incidents. Initial weather front movements were expected between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Wednesday, but current forecasts have delayed this timing to Thursday.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
Community members are implored to secure outdoor items which could become airborne during fierce wind conditions. Placing cars in garages to safeguard against the impact of large hailstones is another suggested precautionary action.
Residents must pay close attention and act promptly when a tornado watch or severe thunderstorm watch is issued, indicating the necessary readiness to evacuate or secure personal belongings. Brenda Jones, the director of the Shelby County Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, urged citizens to have multiple modes of accessing weather alerts. These include phone applications, local news, and NOAA Weather Radios.
This agency also advises people to prepare evacuation plans or building lockdown procedures and to identify safe places of retreat, such as basements or storm shelters. In absence of such options, citizens should resort to the innermost room on the ground floor of a solidly constructed building. Motorists are counselled to seek strong-structures for shelter or, if unable, to pull over and cover themselves with a protective layer such as a coat or blanket. Bridge and overpass structures should be avoided due to their vulnerability during severe weather. The agency also highlights the possibility of power outages and encourages preparedness for such instances.
Service Provider Readiness
Memphis Light, Gas, and Water has an outage guide, as well as a storm preparedness guide published on its website for reference. According to Stacey Greenberg, a community relations member in the service provider, MLGW is always equipped to tackle weather-related power outages. The company’s repair crews are prepared to operate ceaselessly if necessary. Customers experiencing power outages are advised to seek immediate support by contacting MLGW.
The residents of Memphis and surrounding areas are advised to remain vigilant, be prepared, and stay safe during these anticipated severe weather conditions.
