A powerful storm system sweeping across the central United States is set to bring a dangerous severe weather outbreak starting Saturday night and continuing through Sunday, with more than 75 million Americans at risk for various hazardous weather conditions.
Storm Impacts: Severe Thunderstorms, Hail, and Tornadoes
As the storm system gains strength, it will begin triggering severe thunderstorms and hail across the southern Plains, with major cities like Oklahoma City and Dallas expected to experience these impacts into the evening hours on Saturday.
Damaging wind gusts and very large hail are the primary threats, and there is also the possibility of an isolated brief tornado.
In Southern Louisiana, particularly near Baton Rouge, the area is already under a flash flood warning, with some regions experiencing 3.5 to 4.5 inches of rain, and an additional 1 to 2 inches expected by Sunday morning.
A tornado watch was issued for much of Oklahoma on Saturday evening, extending until 1 a.m. Sunday.
Severe Storms Move Into the South and Midwest
On Sunday, the storm will move eastward, impacting the Midwest and South. Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible across a large portion of the region, stretching from east Texas to the southern Great Lakes.
Multiple rounds of severe storms are expected, with some areas continuing into the nighttime hours as the storm system progresses eastward.
Highest Risk Areas for Severe Weather
The greatest risk for severe thunderstorms and strong tornadoes is forecast to stretch from Little Rock, Arkansas to Indianapolis, Indiana. These areas are expected to see numerous severe thunderstorms, which could bring very large hail, destructive winds, and strong tornadoes.
The greatest risk for strong tornadoes is focused on eastern Arkansas, western Tennessee, Kentucky, and southern Indiana, including Memphis, Nashville, Louisville, and Evansville.
Other cities like Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Cleveland are also at risk for damaging winds and hail.
Severe Weather Continues Through Sunday Night and Monday
The severe weather threat will continue through the nighttime hours on Sunday in some regions, making it even more dangerous as it could occur when people are less prepared.
By Monday, the storms will shift east, bringing damaging winds to cities along the I-95 corridor from Upstate New York to Tallahassee and New Orleans. A few tornadoes may also occur in the southern areas of this stretch.
Winter Weather on the North Side of the Storm
As the storm progresses, snow and ice are expected across the Upper Midwest and New England on Saturday into Sunday. Ice storm warnings have been issued for Wisconsin and Michigan, where up to half an inch of icy glaze will accumulate on streets, roads, trees, and sidewalks. This will create dangerous travel conditions and could cause power outages.
Elevated Fire Danger in the Carolinas
In addition to the severe thunderstorms, fire danger continues to be a concern. On Saturday, seven states from New York to North Carolina were under Elevated Fire Danger due to dry conditions. The thunderstorms and heavy rain moving into the Carolinas by Saturday night could help alleviate this, though the region is still recovering from recent wildfires.
Storm System’s Impact Through Monday
The storm system will continue to bring rain, thunderstorms, hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes through Monday, with the worst impacts affecting millions across the South, Midwest, and Northeast. Residents in affected areas should stay informed and take necessary precautions.