Severe spring storms are expected to bring heavy rain and thunder to the Plains and Mississippi Valley over the weekend, potentially leading to powerful tornadoes, large hail, and flooding. On Friday, 21 million people are at risk for severe storms from northern Iowa to northeast Texas, with very large hail up to four inches in diameter and a few possible strong tornadoes in Kansas City, Missouri, and Omaha, Nebraska. The storms have already begun on Friday morning with a tornado watch in effect for eastern Oklahoma, and the most intense storms are expected in the mid-afternoon to early evening, potentially impacting major cities like Tulsa, Kansas City, Omaha, and Des Moines.
The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center has issued an enhanced risk warning of severe thunderstorms for parts of eastern Nebraska, northeastern Kansas, northwestern Missouri, and southwestern Iowa on Friday. As the system moves further into the Plains on Friday night into Saturday, heavy snow is expected to develop in the Rockies. Saturday is forecasted to be the most volatile day of the outbreak, with 33 million people at risk for storms from southern Texas to northern Michigan. The main threats on Saturday include very large hail and numerous tornadoes, some of which could be strong and travel long distances from Ames, Iowa, to Wichita Falls, Texas.
Moving into Sunday, the severe storms are expected to persist over the Plains, with 20 million people from St. Louis to Dallas potentially experiencing hazardous weather. However, the storms on Sunday are projected to be less severe than the weather on Saturday. It is important for residents in these areas to stay informed about weather alerts and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during these potentially dangerous storms. With such a large population at risk and a wide area of potential impact, it is crucial to monitor updates from local authorities and weather services to stay ahead of the severe weather conditions.
Overall, this severe weather outbreak is expected to bring significant challenges to multiple states across the Plains and Mississippi Valley, with potential threats of tornadoes, large hail, and flooding. It is important for residents in these areas to have a plan in place for severe weather events and to be prepared to take action in case of emergency. With the risk of strong tornadoes and damaging winds, it is crucial to have a way to receive weather alerts and to seek shelter in a safe location if necessary. It is also advisable to stay indoors during the worst of the storms and to avoid travel if possible until the severe weather has passed. By staying informed and prepared, individuals can help protect themselves and their families from the potential dangers of these severe spring storms.
