Severe thunderstorms are forecasted to hit four states on Wednesday, bringing the possibility of tornadoes, very large hail, and flash flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska, with the forecast extending from 8 am ET on Wednesday to 8 am ET on Thursday. The Storm Prediction Center has identified the highest risk of severe thunderstorms in western and central Texas, the eastern Texas Panhandle, western Oklahoma, and south-central Kansas, with potential threats including large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes.
The NWS has emphasized the importance of preparedness in areas where severe weather is expected, urging residents to have their severe weather safety plans ready to go. The region has already experienced severe weather events in recent days, including a series of tornadoes in Oklahoma over the weekend that resulted in multiple fatalities and significant damage to homes and buildings. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has urged residents to stay aware of the weather conditions and be prepared to respond in the event of severe weather.
The map from the NWS shows the potential for heavy rain and flash flooding across several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Indiana, Missouri, and South Dakota. The NWS warns of the possibility of severe thunderstorms producing large hail up to three inches in diameter, wind damage, and tornadoes on Wednesday afternoon. The highest risk of tornadoes is estimated at five percent in a region covering a large area from central Texas to central Kansas, encompassing several towns and cities at risk.
The NWS offices in Lubbock, Texas, and Norman, Oklahoma, have issued warnings about severe weather potential in their respective regions, advising residents to remain aware and prepared for any hazardous conditions. The risk of severe thunderstorms is particularly high in areas along and east of a line from Brownfield to Lubbock to Silverton, while all severe weather hazards, including hail, wind, and a low risk of tornadoes, are expected to persist. The NWS is actively monitoring the situation and providing updates to ensure the safety of residents in the affected areas.
Newsweek has contacted the NWS for additional comments and information on the severe weather forecast, seeking to raise awareness and provide valuable insights into the potential risks posed by the upcoming thunderstorms. Through reporting on the latest developments and warnings from meteorological experts, Newsweek aims to keep the public informed and prepared for extreme weather events. By challenging conventional wisdom and seeking common ground, Newsweek is dedicated to delivering accurate and timely information to help individuals and communities stay safe during severe weather conditions.
