Damaging storms likely across the Southeast into the mid-Atlantic

Overnight and Early Morning Severe Weather

A volatile day is set to unfold across the South today and tonight, with a high likelihood of intense tornadoes, as well as very large hail and damaging winds. Storms will continue overnight, with the threat for severe weather continuing on Thursday across the Southeast. 

Strong to severe storms will push east during the morning hours on Thursday, impacting portions of western Florida, north through Georgia into Tennessee and Kentucky. Tornadoes are still possible, even during the early part of the day, so businesses should ensure they stay weather-aware throughout the night. 

An elevated risk of flash flooding will also exist, with heavy rain triggering urban and stream flooding. Roadways may be impassable, with low-lying areas becoming inundated. If your business has assets located in flood zones, site-specific warnings provided by AccuWeather For Business can provide advance notice, giving you time to take necessary protective measures.

Continued Threat

As the day progresses, additional storm development is expected across portions of the Ohio Valley, the Carolinas, and the mid-Atlantic. Damaging winds and hail are likely, with a continued threat of isolated tornadoes. 

Major cities at risk on Thursday include Tallahassee, Atlanta, Charlotte, Columbia, and Norfolk. Businesses with assets in those locations should take time today to review their emergency procedures and ensure all employees are able to safely reach shelter upon receiving a SkyGuard^® severe weather alert. 

Even locations that don’t experience severe storms are likely to be impacted by thunderstorms that produce dangerous lightning. The 30:30 rule does not provide appropriate support for complex storm situations or vulnerable operations, so trust an AccuWeather meteorologist to watch your site and notify you when lightning is an imminent threat. 

Hospitals and healthcare facilities with outdoor COVID-19 vaccination sites will want to stay extra vigilant and plan ahead for potential site closures due to storms. Tents and other temporary structures are especially vulnerable to high winds and should be lowered prior to storm arrival.

Protect your employees and assets by signing up for a SkyGuard demo today. 

• Expect ground logistics disruption due to downed trees and power lines, and flooded roadways, especially along portions of I-95

• Test your communications to ensure alerts are able to be received and disseminated to on-site staff
• Inventory equipment and identify all weather-related thresholds 
• Storm shelters should be well-marked and equipped with a disaster supply kit
• Integrate protective actions directly into warning messages
• Temporary structures designed for COVID-19 response will be especially at risk from high winds, tornadoes and hail
• Protect your company against liability by ensuring all employees know the actions to take during severe weather

AccuWeather For Business will be hosting a mid-season severe weather update and discussion on preparedness and safety with a major university on April 14.