Severe Thunderstorms Expected as 85 mph Winds, Tornadoes Loom
Accuweather reports that the severe weather seen over the weekend across the Plains will return later this week, with the risk of severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes renewed in several states.
From Wednesday, April 22, storms are expected to cause damage from Kansas to South Dakota, with wind speeds potentially reaching 85 mph in some regions. Residents should also expect increased downpour and severe hail. It is strongly recommended to remain indoors and avoid travel wherever possible.
"The primary threat will be hail, but there can still be localized damaging wind gusts," Accuweather warns.
On Thursday, the storm front will expand northbound and southbound, reaching from Texas to Minnesota. The storms will also bring a surge of moisture from the gulf, which may increase downpour even further and cause flash floods near rivers.
The threat is described as "moderate" from Wichita to Sioux Falls, where particularly dangerous conditions could breed isolated tornadoes and wind speeds of up to 85 mph again.
Residents of Oklahoma City, Kansas City, Missouri and Minneapolis, should expect delays in travel and potential flight cancelations on Thursday afternoon and throughout the night due to increased wind speeds.
On Friday, the danger zones will move eastward, covering everywhere from Austin to Indianapolis. While the risk of damaging winds and tornadoes will decrease, this region will see increased downpour due to its proximity to the gulf.
Thunderstorms may continue into the night, with flooding possible in areas with low altitude or nearby rivers. Residents are advized to take extra caution when travelling and ensure that a safe location is always nearby.
Thankfully, these wet conditions will provide a relief to the ongoing drought in much of Texas and Arkansas. These regions have suffered particularly dry conditions over the past week, with the National Weather Service issuing several red flag warnings as fires become more likely. This danger has now risen north to Colorado and Nebraska.
Updated information can be found on the National Weather Service's official website, or through up-to-date reports on Accuweather.