As Americans prepare to enjoy the Memorial Day weekend, the weather will be very different depending on where you are in the country. While the Northeast and Midwest will see cool and pleasant weather, hot and sunny conditions are expected in the Southwest.
However, severe storms and heavy rain will threaten parts of the Plains and the Southern U.S., creating a clear temperature and weather divide across the nation.
Severe Weather Threatens the Plains and South
A strong jet stream pattern is separating warm and cold air masses, causing unstable weather in the central and southern U.S. This setup will continue to fuel rounds of heavy rain and severe thunderstorms through Monday.
Affected Areas:
- Arkansas, western Tennessee, northern Mississippi
- From the Texas Panhandle to Alabama
- Northeastern Oklahoma, southeastern Kansas, southwestern Missouri, and northern Arkansas
Key Hazards:
- Damaging wind gusts
- Large hail
- Isolated tornadoes
- Flash flooding
Flash Flooding Alerts
A Flood Watch remains in effect in cities like:
- Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Springfield, Missouri
- Little Rock, Arkansas
These regions could receive 3 to 6 inches of rain, with some places seeing even more.
Saturday Night and Sunday Forecast:
Severe thunderstorms are possible later Saturday night into Sunday, especially across:
- Texas Panhandle
- Southern Oklahoma
- North Texas, including Dallas-Fort Worth
These areas are under a level 3 out of 5 “Enhanced Risk” alert, with numerous severe storms expected.
Cool and Pleasant in the Northeast and Midwest
In contrast, the Northeast and Midwest will enjoy a much calmer holiday weekend.
Weather Outlook:
- Below-normal but comfortable temperatures
- Dry and mostly sunny skies
- Gradual clearing and improving conditions
Some light showers may continue in upstate New York and northern New England through Sunday, but they are expected to be scattered and short-lived.
Temperature Trend:
- Mild weather will return in the coming days
- Temperatures will move closer to seasonal averages
Warm and Dry Across the West and Southwest
The Southwest U.S. will experience hot and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities and barbecues.
Expected Conditions:
- Dry, sunny, and hot weather
- Comfortable evenings and clear skies
Meanwhile, the Northwest may see scattered showers, especially in western Washington and Oregon, extending into parts of the northern Rockies.