Latest on possible Severe Weather Outbreak January 2-3, 2023
Written by: Candyse Arivett
Tornadoes are possible for the first few days of 2023 in the Southern United States which have already been ravaged by several severe outbreaks towards the end of 2021. Severe thunderstorms are likely Monday from Eastern Oklahoma, Eastern Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana. A few strong tornadoes are possible, as well as large hail and damaging winds. The storms will occur in the afternoon and could continue well into the night. Another outbreak of severe weather is possible tomorrow as well when this system shifts off to the east.
By Tuesday Louisiana, parts of Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, the Western Florida Panhandle, and Western Georgia will be in the crosshairs, with once again tornadoes, hail, and damaging winds all being possible. There is also a threat of flash flooding in areas from eastern Oklahoma and eastern Texas to the western Carolinas. These areas have a good chance of seeing up to two inches of rain from this storm system as it moves through the area Monday-Wednesday which could really help parts of Texas and Oklahoma that are still in a significant drought.
The South has already seen a significant amount of severe weather over the last two months with Tornado outbreaks occurring across parts of the South on November 4th, November 29th-30th, and December 13th-15th. From these outbreaks, there have been a total of 112 confirmed tornadoes.
If you are in the severe weather areas of the South it will be extremely important to stay weather aware over the next three days as this weather system moves through, as more tornadoes are possible. Do not wait until watches or warnings are issued to devise a plan to find a safe place to shelter. Have at least two ways to get Watches and Warnings and make sure your NOAA weather radio or smartphone can wake you up at night as this system is likely to produce severe weather into the night. Take all warnings seriously.
For more on Severe Weather Awareness and Preparation, you can check out the following posts:
Severe Weather Awareness - Tornado Safety
