Severe weather impacts travel for millions after Memorial Day weekend

In the United States, severe weather conditions have been impacting various regions as millions return home from the Memorial Day holiday. On Monday, May 26, 2025, the National Weather Service issued warnings for tens of millions of people across the Southeast and the Plains of the country, indicating that the risk of severe thunderstorms remains high. The storms have been part of a weather pattern that has persisted for several days, causing significant disruptions and potential hazards for travelers. Reports of damage from storms have been widespread, with Oklahoma, Missouri, and Florida experiencing serious weather-related challenges over the weekend. Heavy rains have created flooding situations, particularly in parts of northeast Oklahoma, southeast Kansas, and northern Arkansas, where rainfall accumulations could reach up to 8 inches. Evacuations and water rescues have been reported as communities face relentless impacts from severe weather systems. Meanwhile, damaging hail, including DVD-sized hail, was reported in areas of Texas as storms intensified on Sunday. In addition, the day before saw strong thunderstorms and heavy rainfall moving through regions like southern Missouri and Arkansas, putting residents and travelers at risk. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Storm Prediction Center (SPC) categorized portions of Texas and Louisiana under a Level 3 out of 5 severe thunderstorm risk, further highlighting the urgency of the situation. This classification affects places such as Abilene and Killeen in Texas, warning residents to prepare for possible severe weather events. Meanwhile, a broader Level 2 threat affects over 7 million people from Texas to Louisiana, causing significant concern about travel safety as individuals head back home after the holiday. As the day progresses, meteorologists expect the severe weather to gather strength, with the atmosphere becoming more unstable in Central Texas. Forecasts indicate that supercell thunderstorms could develop later in the afternoon and evening, with storm patterns likely shifting eastward. This evolving weather pattern poses a direct threat to travel plans and could create further issues in densely populated areas as many return from holiday festivities. Overall, the severe weather presents significant challenges and risks to millions as they navigate homeward following the long weekend, highlighting the ongoing troubles posed by extreme weather across the nation.