Relentless rounds of heavy rain continue to pummel parts of Texas and Louisiana, leading to severe flooding and a high risk of flash flooding in many areas. Following weeks of constant storm systems, rivers including the Trinity River near Liberty, Texas, remain in major flood stage. Some regions have already witnessed rainfall that exceeds 500% of their monthly average in just two weeks of May.

As of Tuesday, several locations in northern and eastern Texas, including Dallas, are experiencing one of the wettest starts to the year. The combination of swollen rivers and saturated ground has created a recipe for flood disasters. The situation is expected to worsen as rainfall totals are predicted to range from 6 to 12 inches on Thursday into Friday, making it nearly impossible for the already saturated soil to absorb any more water.

By Thursday morning, a staggering 17 million people were under flood watches, with the risk stretching from northern Texas to central Mississippi. Major metro areas such as Dallas, Houston, Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, and Jackson are included in this high-risk zone. The forecast predicts a high risk of flash flooding for parts of eastern Texas and western Louisiana, where rainfall rates exceeding 3 inches per hour could quickly trigger significant and life-threatening flash floods.

Within this high-risk area, communities such as Huntsville, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Jasper in Texas, and Fort Johnson in Louisiana are particularly vulnerable. The Weather Prediction Center has declared a high risk, indicating a 70% chance of rainfall amounts exceeding flash flooding guidance within a 25-mile radius. Historically, high-risk events have accounted for about 40% of flood-related fatalities and 80% of flood-related damages.

The danger is expected to shift eastward on Friday, encompassing parts of Mississippi and Alabama, where a widespread 3 to 6 inches of rain is expected. Localized amounts up to 12 inches are also possible through Saturday.

In addition to the flooding, severe storms pose a significant threat to Texas. On Thursday, approximately 18 million people from western Texas to western Louisiana could experience very large hail, wind gusts up to 60 mph, and a few tornadoes. Cities such as Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Lake Charles are advised to remain vigilant.

On Friday, severe storms are forecasted for around 9 million people across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the western Florida Panhandle, posing risks of all storm hazards.

The authorities are urging residents in the affected regions to take necessary precautions and remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions. As the storm system gradually exits the southern and Gulf Coast states, the overall impact of this extreme weather event may further escalate, raising concerns for public safety and potential damages.