Midwest Under Threat For Severe Storms

A disorganized but potent disturbance will bring the risk for severe weather across portions of the Midwest into the central U.S. today.

A nearly stationary frontal boundary stretching from the central Plains to the Great Lakes will separate to distinct air masses. To the north of this front, a cooler air mass is found while south of the boundary, a hot and humid air mass is located. 

The collision of these two air masses will help fuel strong to severe thunderstorms today and tonight across the nation's midsection. 

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, for portions of western Indiana, Illinois, southeast Iowa, Missouri, far southeastern Kansas, and far northeastern Oklahoma. 

Thunderstorms throughout the day today and tonight will be capable of producing wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph, 1-inch or larger hail, and a few tornadoes.

Some cities at risk for severe weather today include Chicago, St. Louis, and Kansas City, Mo.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch was issued for far northern Missouri into northwestern Illinois, including the cities of Kirksville, Mo and Peoria, Ill.

Separate Severe Thunderstorm Watches were issued swathing a large corridor from southwestern Oklahoma into southeastern Missouri. Cities posted under these watches include Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Okla., Fayetteville, Ark. and Springfield, Mo.

Locally heavy downpours can also occur in thunderstorms today, resulting in localized ponding of water on roadways and flooding. 

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!”