Remnants of Hurricane Norma Threaten the United States. Rains Alleviate Drought. Possible Flash Floods.
The remnants of Hurricane Norma pose a threat to parts of the United States, as a combination of moisture and a cold front is expected to bring rainfall. Texas and Oklahoma, located in the southern plains, are the affected states that will experience challenging weather conditions throughout the week. It is worth mentioning that, according to experts, excessive rain could also increase the risk of flash floods. Between 3 and 5 inches of rain are expected in parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and southern Kansas by the end of the workweek.
In addition, it has been forecasted that isolated areas in the southern plains may even receive 5 to 8 inches of rain. Norma rapidly intensified into a category 4 hurricane before weakening to a category 1 storm, making landfall south of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Rainfall began in Texas on Monday and is expected to intensify and spread as the week progresses. Therefore, it is anticipated that a significant portion of Texas and Oklahoma will see precipitation due to the powerful storm.
Communities west of Dallas are likely to experience the highest levels of moisture, according to meteorologists’ predictions. From Del Rio along the Texas-Mexico border north to Oklahoma City and its surrounding areas, the southern plains region, which has been battling drought, is finally seeing some relief thanks to the remnants of Hurricane Norma. Despite concerns about flash floods due to the anticipated precipitation, the rain is a welcomed relief for residents.
Hurricane Norma has left a trail of moisture, which is combining with Gulf of Mexico moisture and an advancing cold front. This explosive combination promises to bring substantial rainfall to Texas and Oklahoma, partially alleviating the drought that has affected the region in recent months. It is worth mentioning that while rain is currently needed, too much rain in a short period could be concerning. Many cities are desperate for water, and Dallas and Austin are approximately one or more feet below the average total precipitation for this time of year.
While the storm will alleviate some of the drought, the abundant and rapidly falling rain raises fears of flooding starting on Tuesday, according to Fox Weather. The threat of flash floods extends across the southern and central plains, with the highest risk located in Texas and Oklahoma at least until Thursday. Undoubtedly, the rain is good news for communities that have been dealing with drought conditions, water restrictions, and even crop losses. Over 88% of counties in Texas are experiencing abnormally dry conditions, with similar figures in Oklahoma.
Forecasters expect rainfall between 3 and 5 inches in several areas of Texas, as well as in Oklahoma and southern Kansas throughout the week. Dallas has experienced a precipitation deficit of over 13 inches this year, while Austin is behind by nearly a foot. The rainfall will not be enough to end the drought, and many communities are likely to finish the year with a precipitation deficit. Some isolated areas may receive even more, up to 8 inches of rain, prompting residents to remain vigilant in this weather.
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