• Severe weather threat may impact Memorial Day weekend travel and events across much of the U.S., especially in central and southern states.
• Dangerous storms could bring flash flooding, high winds, hail, and tornadoes from Texas to the Southeast.
• A rare late-season nor’easter will hit New England with heavy rain, strong winds, and cooler temperatures before the holiday.

Severe storms could disrupt Memorial Day weekend plans across the U.S.

Millions of Americans may face severe weather during Memorial Day weekend. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds could disrupt parades, family events, and outdoor gatherings. This weekend is supposed to honor fallen heroes, but the weather might not cooperate. Many cities have planned ceremonies and public events, but safety could become a major concern. The weather pattern forming over the central U.S. will bring storms to several states. Families traveling long distances might have to adjust their plans or prepare for delays and dangerous conditions.

A record number of travelers expected to hit the road or sky

AAA says 45.1 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home between May 22 and May 26. That breaks the 2005 record of 44 million. Travelers will face storms, especially in central and southern states. The increase in travel means more cars on the road and more flights in the sky. With severe weather in the forecast, delays and cancellations are likely. Drivers may also have to deal with wet roads, poor visibility, and possible flash floods. Those flying should check their airline schedules and allow extra time.

Dangerous storms likely in the central and southern Plains

A shortwave over the Rocky Mountains will mix with a frontal system. This mix will trigger heavy rain and strong thunderstorms across the central U.S. Meteorologist Jennifer Tate from the National Weather Service says this system will move into a moist and unstable air mass. This setup creates the perfect conditions for dangerous storms. These storms could include flash flooding, high winds, large hail, and even tornadoes. AccuWeather warns that the threat could stretch across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Nebraska on May 23.

Severe weather will move east through the holiday weekend

The storm system will continue moving eastward through the weekend. Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski from AccuWeather says the storms will slowly push across the South Central U.S. States in the Mississippi Valley and along the Gulf Coast could see strong storms on May 24 and May 25. By Memorial Day, those storms may reach parts of the Southeast. People living or traveling in these areas should stay alert. Weather alerts and warnings may come quickly. Flash flooding and damaging winds could impact plans throughout the region.

What the forecast says for different U.S. regions

The weather will vary across the country this weekend. In Texas and Louisiana, temperatures could reach 100 degrees. Scattered thunderstorms are likely across the Florida Peninsula. New York should stay mostly clear with cool highs in the upper 60s. Denver can expect highs in the 70s, but with a chance of storms. Los Angeles should see sunny skies. The Northwest may get more rain by Sunday. Travelers should check local forecasts and prepare for sudden changes. Not all areas will see bad weather, but many could.

Warm Atlantic waters could fuel strong hurricanes this year

Hurricane season starts on June 1. Experts already worry that this season could be very active. AccuWeather says Atlantic Ocean waters are warmer than normal. Warm water gives hurricanes more energy. That can make storms stronger and more dangerous before they reach land. Hurricane expert Alex DaSilva says water temperatures are not as warm as last year, but still far above normal. Forecasters expect 13 to 18 named storms this season. That includes 7 to 10 hurricanes, 3 to 5 major ones, and 3 to 6 that could hit the U.S. directly.

Weather Service struggles with staff shortages during severe storms

The National Weather Service faces big challenges during this storm season. Some offices have fewer staff due to past government cuts. Workers must handle more duties and longer shifts. In Jackson, Kentucky, employees worked double shifts on May 16 to keep up with storm warnings. These efforts helped protect people from tornadoes and flooding. Ryan Maue, a meteorologist, criticized the Commerce Department and NOAA for mishandling contracts. He says the mismanagement has hurt the country’s ability to forecast weather and issue accurate alerts.

Rain could affect Memorial Day events at Arlington Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery expects large crowds for Memorial Day events. May 24 should stay clear and cool, with highs in the upper 60s. But rain chances will increase from May 25 through Memorial Day. The weather may impact ceremonies and performances. Scheduled events include a Marine Band concert, a Navy chorus, a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and a parade of colors. Guests and veterans should check the forecast before attending. Umbrellas and rain gear might be necessary.

New England braces for late nor’easter before the holiday

A late-season nor’easter will sweep through New England just before the holiday weekend. This storm will bring high winds, cold air, and heavy rain from May 21 to May 23. Boston and coastal areas could see gusts up to 50 miles per hour. Coastal flooding is possible in low-lying areas. The nor’easter will lower temperatures by up to 20 degrees below normal. This type of storm usually hits between September and April, so one in late May is unusual. The storm may clear by the weekend, but it will leave behind cooler weather and soggy conditions.

Nor’easters explained for those new to the term

A nor’easter is a large storm that forms along the East Coast. These storms bring strong northeast winds, heavy rain or snow, and big waves. They can cause major problems, including flooding and power outages. Nor’easters usually develop during fall and winter. They often lead to blizzard-like conditions in New England. When one happens in late spring, it surprises many people. This one will arrive just before Memorial Day and could dampen holiday spirits in the Northeast.