Severe Storms, Flooding Possible On Memorial Day

Whether you are traveling or planning outdoor activities, weather conditions this Memorial Day could be a factor to weigh into your decision-making, especially in the central and southern U.S.

Travel, particularly by car, is expected to be busy this year with AAA anticipating that a record 45.1 million people will venture at least 50 miles from home over the holiday period. Here's a look at where rainfall could slow some down and how a nationwide temperature split might factor into your activities.

Who Could Be Wet Vs. Dry

The sluggish-moving weather system is nudging a bit farther south and east today. That means rain and thunderstorms will plague much of the South and Plains. This could mean a washout in locations shaded darker green in the map below.

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The rainfall could also be heavy, resulting in localized flash flooding in portions of the South. Scattered severe storms could impact the Southern Plains and parts of the Southeast, especially across the state of Texas. Damaging winds and very large hail will be the main threats, but we can’t rule out an isolated tornado.

Once again, the West should be trouble-free for most, although expect some rain in the Central and Southern Rockies. The Northwest might also see a few showers.

Temperature Split

-Plains, Mississippi Valley Staying Cool: Rain and storms will keep temperatures well below average across this part of the country. Look for highs in the 50s across the Northern Plains with more 60s and 70s farther south.

-South Sweats: Florida, the Gulf Coast states and south Texas will see summer-like heat with plenty of 90s, so a pool or a beach is a great place to hang out and cool off.

-Mid-Atlantic, Ohio Valley, Great Lakes Around Average: Looking good with plenty of highs in the 60s and 70s.

-Western Contrast: The Southwest will feel like summer unless you are in coastal Southern California, where the Pacific Ocean's influence keeps it cooler. Lower elevations of the Northwest will generally be in the 60s and 70s, while the Great Basin and Northern Rockies heat up into the 70s and 80s.

Chris Dolce has been a senior digital meteorologist with weather.com for nearly 15 years after beginning his career with The Weather Channel in the early 2000s.