Strong Storms Sweeping Through the Region
Strong storms are sweeping through the region, and severe weather is forecast to develop overnight throughout many states. Meteorologists are warning residents to be on the lookout as conditions are shaping up for damaging winds, large hail, heavy rain, and perhaps tornadoes. The threat is expected to increase during the late evening and overnight hours when people are asleep and may be less likely to receive warnings. Emergency officials are asking folks to examine their safety preparations and ensure their devices are set up to receive weather alerts.
Threat of Severe Weather Widening Across States
There is a potential for severe weather across multiple states as a major weather system moves in with warm, humid air. Meteorologists said circumstances will be favorable for the development of strong thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes and severe wind damage. Heavy rainfall rates may generate flash flooding in some regions. “The storms are overnight and that is concerning because it’s hard to track severe weather in the dark.”
Major Threats Continue to Be Damaging Winds and Huge Hail
The major concern from these storms will be the powerful straight-line winds. The most severe storms could produce wind gusts strong enough to blow down trees, knock out power, and cause structural damage. There is also a threat of huge hail in some places. Some storms can create enormous hail, damaging vehicles, roofs, and crops.
Meteorologists are telling people to bring in everything from outside and to park their cars in covered spots if they can. Even areas farthest from tornadoes can be significantly impacted by severe thunderstorms.
Increased Overnight Tornado Threat
Forecasters will also be looking for a chance of tornadoes if storms intensify overnight. The air is expected to be primed for producing thunderstorms that can suddenly spawn tornadoes with little notice. It is a particularly serious threat since tornadoes at night can be more deadly than daytime tornadoes due to reduced visibility and less public awareness. People in sensitive locations should consider having more than one source of weather alerts. When warnings are issued overnight, critical information can be obtained from smartphone alerts, NOAA weather radios, and local news updates.
Heavy Rain May Trigger Localized Flooding
Heavy rain, as well as severe storms, might cause isolated flooding in certain locations. “Slow-moving storms or back-to-back rounds of rain could stress drainage systems and lead to dangerous travel conditions. Low-lying streets and flood-prone locations could see water pooling, especially if thunderstorms move over the same places more than once.”
Drivers are warned against attempting to drive through flooded highways; even a small bit of rushing water can be dangerous.
Residents Told to Get Ready for Storms
Emergency management officials are urging people to complete storm preparations before conditions worsen. Residents are advised to shelter in place, charge electronics, and have emergency supplies at the ready. Those who reside in mobile homes or other vulnerable structures should have a plan to relocate to a safer place if warnings for severe weather are issued.
Meteorologists are asking people to stay alert and act quickly on those warnings as storms are expected to strengthen overnight. The combination of damaging winds, large hail, heavy rain, and possible tornadoes is not a weather scenario to be taken lightly.
