Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Tornadoes and Baseball-Size Hail Expected in Six States
The past several days have brought severe weather in various parts of the United States. On Monday, areas of the Midwest and South are in the line of fire for thunderstorms and more.
The latest forecast from the National Weather Service (NWS) is calling for "severe" thunderstorms and possibly tornadoes throughout the mid Mississippi Valley and Mid-South today and tonight.
"Numerous severe thunderstorms are expected from the mid Mississippi/lower Ohio Valleys into the Mid-South through this evening, with a threat for multiple strong to intense tornadoes (EF-3+), widespread severe/damaging wind gusts, and scattered large to very large hail," the NWS Storm Prediction Center says.
Which states are affected?
Portions of six states are covered in this severe weather alert:
- Southern and central Illinois
- Central and eastern Missouri
- Western Kentucky
- Western Indiana
- Northern and central Arkansas
- Western Tennessee
Some of the major cities included in this forecast include St. Louis, Chicago, Memphis, Little Rock, Springfield, Chicago, Indianapolis and Nashville.
What should residents do?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has a number of tips for anyone who lives in the territories listed above, including reviewing severe weather safety procedures for the possibility of dangerous weather and keeping tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, weather.gov, or other media for watches and warnings.
"A tornado watch means that conditions are favorable for tornadoes to form during the next several hours," the NOAA says. "If a tornado warning is issued for your area, move to a place of safety, ideally in a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building."
For more detailed directions on how to prepare for an incoming tornado, check out Ready.gov's guidelines, which include steps you and your family should take before the storm and things to consider once threatening weather arrives.
Be vigilant and safe, everyone.