Memorial Day forecast: Tropical rainfall may ruin outdoor plans along Northeast coast

By Renee Duff, AccuWeather.com Meteorologist

May 28,2016; 11:45PM,EDT

 

 

Thunderstorms and soaking rain will threaten Memorial Day ceremonies, cookouts and vacations for millions on Monday.
Whatever the nature of your plans on Memorial Day, AccuWeather MinuteCast® can give you short-term notice on approaching rain or thunderstorms.
JUMP TO: Tropical rainfall to drench mid-Atlantic, Northeast coasts| Storms to threaten outdoor plans in central US, interior West | Warm, sunny weather to highlight Memorial Day across Great Lakes, Southeast and West Coast

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Tropical rainfall to drench mid-Atlantic, Northeast coasts
Rain associated with Tropical Storm Bonnie could ruin vacation plans along the mid-Atlantic and Northeast coasts for at least part of Memorial Day.
"The interaction between an approaching storm from the west and Tropical Storm Bonnie will bring a widespread threat for showers and thunderstorms to the eastern U.S.," according to AccuWeather Meteorologist Brett Rathbun.
The heaviest rain may end by early afternoon in locations such as Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, Virginia. Soaking rain is expected to be more of an all-day event from Philadelphia to New York City and Boston.
The Carolinas are forecast to remain rainy and breezy on Monday as the tropical system lingers near the coast.
Meanwhile, afternoon thunderstorms are expected to erupt across South Florida, a time when many people will be outdoors.
Storms to threaten outdoor plans in central US, interior West
Outdoor celebrations may have to be brought inside across the Plains and interior West as thunderstorms are expected to erupt on Memorial Day.
"The Plains and interior West will stay active with rounds of storms expected to continue through Memorial Day," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Rinde explained.
A few of the strongest storms could produce damaging winds and hail, mainly across parts of the northern and central Plains.
Those heading to cookouts, pool parties and/or outdoor ceremonies should seek shelter indoors at the first rumble of thunder.
Rinde added that flash flooding will be a concern, especially across the Plains where storms hit hard this past week.
Hikers in the Rockies should keep an eye out for rapidly changing weather conditions as thunderstorms can develop with little notice. At the first sign of a developing storm, move to a lower elevation, in a densely wooded area or head back to your vehicle if possible.
Warm, sunny weather to highlight Memorial Day across Great Lakes, Southeast and West Coast
Warmth and sunshine will be the theme for Memorial Day across the Great Lakes, Southeast and West Coast.
Those spending the day outside will want to bring along sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water.