The Memorial Day weekend kicked off with a multi-day thunderstorm and heavy rainfall system hitting the south-central part of the country, forecasters said.

A close look at regional economies indicates that industries, including tourism and shipping, are plagued by uncertainty.

Any pause in storminess after the week-long barrage that ended Wednesday is short-lived, as severe weather and flood threats increase into Memorial Day weekend across a big chunk of the south-central United States.

From Arlington National Cemetery outside the nation's capital to the American burial ground in Normandy, France, presidents customarily commemorate Memorial Day on hallowed ground.

ABC News' Perry Russom explains why people across the country are taking on "The Murph Challenge" this Memorial Day weekend.

PHOENIX - If you are searching for a way to celebrate fallen veterans during Memorial Day, there are several options for you throughout the Valley. From public ceremonies to floral tributes and even a musical celebration, there are several options from Gilbert to Avondale and places in between on Monday, May 26.

Here are some local Memorial Day weekend events to pay tribute to the soldiers who have given their lives defending their country.

Take an hour or two from your long weekend to observe Memorial Day with the national holiday's intent: Honoring those who died in service to our country. Ceremonies and other events are planned across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26 this year. Here's what to know about which Salinas-area restaurants are open and closed on the day.

Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 26 this year. Here's what to know about which California restaurants are open and closed on the day.

Most fast food and sit-down restaurants will be open on Memorial Day while banks and post offices will be closed.