Image Source: FOX Weather
Hurricane tropical storm Simon is expected to help fuel a dangerous, multiday flood threat across the Great Plains as its remnants move north and interact with moisture from the Gulf of Mexico.
According to FOX Weather, Hurricane Simon was a Category 3 hurricane located about 145 miles west-northwest of Manzanillo, Mexico, on Monday morning. A Hurricane Warning remained in effect from Playa Perula to El Roblito and Las Islas Marias, Mexico.
Hurricane Tropical Storm Simon Remnants Bring Critical Flood Risk
Although Simon is expected to weaken, its leftover moisture will continue moving northward. That tropical moisture will combine with humid air from the Gulf and a powerful disturbance developing over the central United States.
A deep dip in the jet stream is forecast to settle over the Southwest, while a broad ridge of high pressure builds across the South and the Gulf. This weather pattern will help draw moisture northward, creating conditions favorable for repeated rounds of thunderstorms.
Explosive Storms Could Begin Across Texas and Oklahoma
Storm development is expected to increase by Tuesday as moisture levels rise and a disturbance moves out of the Rockies. Scattered downpours could affect northern Texas, the Oklahoma Panhandles, Kansas and Missouri.
The FOX Forecast Center has identified a Level 2 out of 5 severe storm risk across Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles. The strongest storms could produce intense rainfall, gusty winds and frequent lightning. Isolated flash flooding may also occur, particularly where storms repeatedly move over the same locations.
- Severe storms are expected across the Central U.S. through Thursday.
- A Level 2 flood threat is in place for Kansas and Missouri.
- Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are possible across a broad area.
- Repeated storms could create dangerous travel conditions and rapid water rises.
Wednesday Brings a Widespread Heavy Rain Threat
By Wednesday, the storm system is expected to intensify and shift eastward. A Level 2 out of 4 flash flood threat is forecast across western Kansas, much of Missouri and western Illinois.
Several major cities could be affected, including Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri, along with Wichita, Kansas. Even areas that do not experience severe thunderstorms could see prolonged periods of heavy rain as storms develop in waves.
Residents in flood-prone neighborhoods should monitor changing conditions, avoid crossing water-covered roads and remain alert for warnings. Heavy rainfall can quickly overwhelm drainage systems, especially when storms repeatedly pass over the same area.
Rain Spreads Toward the Upper Midwest
On Thursday, the wet weather is expected to shift toward the Northeast, Upper Midwest and Great Lakes. Forecast rainfall totals of about 1 to 2 inches may stretch from northern Texas through Illinois, covering nearly 1,000 miles.
The broad rain shield could bring additional flooding concerns along creeks, streams and low-lying roads. Urban areas may also experience street flooding if downpours arrive faster than storm drains can handle.
Despite the serious flood risk, the rainfall could provide welcome relief for parts of Oklahoma, southern Missouri and Texas. Those areas have experienced persistent extreme to exceptional drought, and the additional moisture may help improve soil conditions and water supplies.
What Residents Should Know About the Hurricane Tropical Storm Threat
The primary danger will come from the interaction between Simon’s remnants, Gulf moisture and the developing central U.S. storm system. This combination can produce heavy rain far from the original hurricane track.
People across the Great Plains and Midwest should keep phones charged, review flood safety plans and check local forecasts before traveling. Never drive through flooded roads, because water depth and current strength can be difficult to judge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hurricane Simon located?
Hurricane Simon was located about 145 miles west-northwest of Manzanillo, Mexico, according to the latest FOX Weather report.
Will Hurricane Simon make landfall in the United States?
Simon is expected to weaken, but its remnants will move north and contribute tropical moisture to storms and flooding across the Central U.S.
Which states face the greatest flood threat?
Kansas and Missouri face an elevated flood threat, while parts of Texas, Oklahoma, western Illinois and nearby states could also experience flash flooding.
How much rain is expected?
Widespread rainfall totals of about 1 to 2 inches are possible from northern Texas through Illinois, with locally higher amounts in areas affected by repeated storms.
