Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued for a 1,000-mile stretch from central Texas to southern Minnesota, affecting eight U.S. states: Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota. The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting adverse weather conditions such as lightning, tornados, flash flooding, and hail starting on Friday. In Texas, residents in Kent and Dickens counties can expect golf ball-sized hailstones and 60 mph winds. Another warning has been issued for Foard and Knox counties with penny-sized hailstones and high winds. Residents are advised to seek shelter and avoid driving in flooded areas.
The NWS is warning residents to prepare for large hail, deadly lightning, and flash flooding. Torrential rainfall is expected to lead to potentially dangerous conditions. Further severe weather is predicted in southern Iowa, eastern/central Kansas, southeastern Nebraska, northwestern Missouri, central Oklahoma, and north-central Texas on Saturday. A moderate risk of excessive rainfall is forecasted over central to northeastern Oklahoma. AccuWeather chief on-air meteorologist Bernie Rayno expressed concern for Iowa, which has already experienced tornadoes this month. The setup for Friday in Iowa resembles April 16 when a dozen tornadoes touched down in the state. AccuWeather meteorologists are worried about a potential tornado outbreak on Friday and Saturday.
The central U.S. is facing a multiple-day severe weather event with the possibility of intense and long-track tornadoes. Friday and Saturday are pinpointed as the time periods of greatest concern for severe thunderstorms and potential tornado outbreaks. AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jon Porter emphasized the volatile atmospheric setup that favors severe weather conditions and tornadoes, raising the alarm for residents in the affected states. The forecast includes high winds, hail, and excessive rainfall, prompting authorities to urge caution and preparedness for severe weather events. The situation could escalate to a dangerous tornado outbreak, necessitating vigilance and safety measures.
The National Weather Service has issued two severe thunderstorm warnings in Texas for Kent and Dickens counties, where storm damages to property and potential injuries are expected. Residents in these areas are advised to seek shelter in well-built structures and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Additional warnings have been issued for other parts of the affected states, with various risk levels for severe weather conditions. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the atmospheric conditions and are particularly concerned about the potential for tornado outbreaks. The public is urged to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the severe weather events expected over the weekend in the central U.S.
