Powerful storms barreling through multiple states have triggered warnings to stay out of vehicles as fast-moving floods could make roads a deathtrap.
The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm and flash flood warnings in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas on Tuesday, with meteorologists saying the dangerous weather will continue for days.
NWS warned in a statement: ‘Torrential rainfall is occurring with these storms, and may lead to flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.’
At the eastern edge of the storm, forecasters revealed that parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas have already seen up to three inches of rain fall as of Tuesday morning, and another four inches could fall by noon local time.
In Kansas, the powerful storms are expected to bring wind gusts of more than 60 mph and hail nearly the size of golf balls.
‘Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding and trees,’ weather officials revealed.
AccuWeather has added that the risk of severe thunderstorms will also spread to Colorado, Nebraska and southern Wyoming Tuesday afternoon, with this widespread storm system carrying through the night.
Along with flash flooding and damaging hail, there is a chance for isolated tornadoes to touch down in the most severe storm areas.
This is a breaking story. More details to follow.
Radar images reveal major storm systems moving across the southern US on Tuesday, June 23
Meteorologists have warned that flash flood and thunderstorms may last across several states through Thursday, June 25 (Stock Image)
AccuWeather meteorologists warned that wind gusts on Tuesday and Wednesday could reach 85 mph, the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane.
Multiple cities will be in the path of the flooding threats, including Paris, Texas, Shreveport, Louisiana and Norman, Oklahoma.
At least five states are in the path of extreme thunderstorms bringing tornadoes, hail and flash flooding this week
Pictured: A car submerged in flash flooding in Texas. Weather officials are warning thousands of drivers across five states to avoid the roads Tuesday as flash flooding could cause deadly conditions
Radar maps of the South revealed severe thunderstorms moving into Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas
Pictured: A car being rescued from flash floods in De Kalb, Texas
