Late-Season Severe Weather Possible Across South and Lower Mississippi Valley November 20–26
ARKLATEX REGION — A rare late-season severe weather outbreak may develop next week, with meteorologists closely monitoring a system capable of producing strong thunderstorms and potential tornadoes across the South and Lower Mississippi River Valley between November 20 and 26.
According to weather model data from the Northern Illinois University Climate Research Group (NIU), a significant upper-level trough is expected to form over the western United States around November 17, triggering a series of storm systems that could sweep eastward through Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.
Severe Weather Setup Developing
Early forecasts show an active pattern forming late next week. A “wispy lead system” is expected to first impact Arkansas around November 17, setting the stage for a larger and more organized trough during the November 20–23 period.
Meteorologists say this pattern could bring severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes to parts of East Texas, northern Louisiana, southern Arkansas, and western Mississippi — a region commonly referred to as the Arklatex.
A model from the CFSv2 (Climate Forecast System) highlights elevated “supercell composite” values, indicating enhanced atmospheric instability capable of fueling rotating storms.
Late-Season Tornadoes Not Unheard Of
While tornado activity typically peaks in spring, forecasters warn that November tornadoes are not uncommon across the South. The late fall period often brings a secondary tornado season, particularly when cold fronts clash with lingering Gulf moisture and warm air.
“Conditions look favorable for an uptick in severe weather as we head into Thanksgiving week,” forecasters noted in the latest analysis. “Residents across the Arklatex and Lower Mississippi Valley should remain alert to developing forecasts.”
Areas to Watch
- East Texas and Louisiana: Possible strong storms beginning around November 20
- Arkansas and Mississippi: Risk of rotating storms and isolated tornadoes between November 21–23
- Lower Mississippi Valley: Continued severe weather potential into November 25–26
While confidence remains moderate at this stage, models suggest multiple rounds of precipitation and storm activity could track through the region.
Residents Urged to Stay Prepared
Local emergency officials advise residents to ensure they have reliable ways to receive weather alerts, especially as the system approaches the Thanksgiving holiday travel period.
Meteorologists caution that forecasts will continue to evolve in the coming days. Further updates will clarify storm timing and severity as new data becomes available.
For real-time updates on regional weather developments, stay connected with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for the latest forecasts and safety information.
