Dangerous Weather Percolates From Texas Gulf Coast to Eastern Great Lakes

A few dangerous thunderstorms will percolate from near the Texas Gulf Coast through the eastern Great Lakes through tonight. The primary risk will be damaging winds, although an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.

Spring-like warmth and humidity continues to surge northward along and ahead of this front across the Tennessee and Ohio valleys. At the same time, an area of low pressure crossing the Great Lakes is sending cooler and drier air southward. The resulting clash of airmasses will likely lead to some strong to severe thunderstorms today. 

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for northern and central Ohio and a small part of northwestern Pennsylvania. Cleveland, Akron-Canton, Mansfield, and Columbus, Ohio, and Erie, Pa., are included.

Scattered damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph and drenching downpour will be the primary impacts from the thunderstorms. However, an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out. 

Cleveland to Columbus, Ohio, and as far northeast as Erie, Pa., and Buffalo, N.Y., will have the best opportunity to encounter dangerous weather. Houston to Birmingham, Ala., Nashville and Memphis, Tenn., and Cincinnati to Pittsburgh and Scranton, Pa., could also be peppered by a gusty thunderstorm through this evening.

Locally drenching rain may result in flooding concerns as well, especially across Texas, northern Louisiana, western Mississippi, and western Tennessee. A quick 1 to 2 inches may foster flooding, especially near rivers, creeks, and streams, as well as urban, low-lying and vulnerable flood prone areas. If you do approach a flooded roadway, remember it’s always best to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” 

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they be 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. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"