Major Storm System Threatens Over 37 Million in Central and Eastern U.S.; Arkansas Braces for Severe Weather
March 2, 2025
Windy conditions are forecasted for Monday with sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 40 mph, setting the stage for storm development.
The severe weather threat is driven by a strong low-pressure system in the Plains that will draw in warm, humid air from the Gulf, creating favorable conditions for storm formation.
A severe weather outbreak, including tornadoes, is expected to impact the South on March 4 and 5, 2025, as a significant storm system targets the central and eastern U.S.
As the severe weather threat escalates, over 37 million people in eastern Texas, Oklahoma, western Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle are at risk, with southern Arkansas, northern and central Louisiana, and Mississippi facing the most significant threats.
Residents are advised to stay informed through the 5NEWS app and live radar updates, especially as storms are expected to arrive early Tuesday morning.
Forecasters anticipate damaging winds of 60 to 70 mph, quarter-sized hail, and a low tornado risk, although the exact severity of tornado activity remains uncertain.
Meteorologist Majestic Storm indicates that a deep upper-level low pressure system will begin affecting the area late Monday night, around 10 p.m.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated, with some areas potentially receiving 1 to 3 inches, raising the risk of flash flooding, particularly in regions already saturated from previous storms.
All modes of severe weather are possible, including heavy rain, gusty winds, small hail, and the potential for isolated tornadoes.
It is crucial for residents to prepare a severe weather safety plan, which includes knowing safe shelter locations and receiving timely weather alerts.
The storm system is expected to bring wind energy conducive to severe weather, despite a lack of instability due to relatively warm temperatures.
Specific cities under threat include Shreveport and Bossier City in Louisiana, Little Rock in Arkansas, and Jackson in Mississippi, which have been assigned a level 3 out of 5 risk.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources

The Weather Channel • Mar 2, 2025
Severe Weather Outbreak Possible In South This Week | Weather.com
Fox Weather • Mar 2, 2025
37 million from Plains to Southeast face dangerous severe weather threat with tornadoes likely
KHBS • Mar 2, 2025
Get ready for possible severe storms Tuesday morning in Arkansas
KICKS 105 • Feb 27, 2025
Dangerous East Texas Tornado Outbreak Possible on Mardi Gras