Severe weather and elevated flood risk to cause business interruption across the Plains this week

Severe Outlook

The next round of severe weather across the Plains is expected to ignite this afternoon, putting organizations in the central U.S. at risk for impacts from tornadoes, damaging winds, hail, lightning, and flash flooding.

Storms will develop again on Wednesday and intensify in the late afternoon hours, reaching severe status across a region from central Texas to eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas. Businesses should be prepared for all severe weather hazards and make sure they have multiple methods to receive alerts. 

SkyGuard® warnings can be received via email, SMS, SkyGuard mobile app, and through the online Portal, ensuring an alert is never missed and employees and assets are protected.

Flood Outlook

Along with the repeated rounds of severe storms will come an increased risk of flash flooding from the Southern Plains into the Midwest. Rainfall amounts of 4-6 inches, with rainfall rates of 2”/hour at times, is expected to impact southeastern Kansas through central Missouri, and portions of southern Illinois today through Thursday.  Rainfall amounts of up to 6 inches will also affect portions of eastern Oklahoma into northwestern Arkansas and far southwestern Missouri on Wednesday.

Impacts

Disruptions to logistical operations are expected, including road closures, road and rail washouts, downed trees, power outages, and localized damage to homes and businesses. 

Take time today to ensure all employees are familiar with the place of shelter or refuge within your facility and that your emergency action plan incorporates specific actions tied to hazards.

Not a SkyGuard client? Contact us today to learn more about protecting your employees and mitigating risk to your business.

• Expect ground logistics disruption due to downed trees and power lines, especially along portions of I-35, I-40, and I-20
• 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 
• Identify time needed for equipment shutdowns and travel times to shelter 
• Storm shelters should be well-marked and equipped with a disaster supply kit
• Integrate protective actions directly into warning messages