Large, Potent Storms Likely In North-Central U.S.
The northern edge of the heat dome will light up with storms in the northern Plains and Upper Midwest today.
A quick-moving weather disturbance will move along a cold front today, darting across the northern Plains into the Upper Midwest. This cold front separates hot, very humid air to the south from colder, drier air filtering in from the north. Thunderstorms will bubble up in eastern Montana and the Dakotas along this collision of air masses today. Thunderstorms will then likely strengthen as they head eastward into Iowa, central and southern Minnesota, and western Wisconsin during the evening and overnight hours.
Strong, damaging winds will be the main concern with these storms, with hail and a few tornadoes also possible. The strongest signal for severe storms resides across southeastern North Dakota, eastern South Dakota, southern Minnesota, and northern Iowa. In these areas, the Storm Prediction Center has placed Moderate and Enhanced Risks. Given the extreme ingredients in place, a derecho could develop within this region.
There is also a larger Slight Risk in place across the north-central U.S. that extends eastward into western Wisconsin. It also covers much of the western Dakotas, central and eastern Montana, and far northern Nebraska.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect across central Montana.
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A watch means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A warning means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.
The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today’s severe weather. Remember, “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”