Severe Storms To Impact Central Plains, Missouri Valley

A clash of air masses over the central Plains and Missouri Valley will lead to the development of severe thunderstorms tonight.

A cold front slowly sinking southward will separate two distinct air masses. To the south, a very warm and humid air mass moving northward will collide with a cooler and drier air mass pushing southward. Mix in some upper-air energy and the result will be the development of strong to severe thunderstorms later this afternoon through tonight.

The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, across portions of northeastern Colorado, much of Kansas, Nebraska, northern and western Missouri, and Iowa. Cities at risk include Topeka, Kan., Omaha, Neb., Kansas City, Mo., and Des Moines, Iowa.

While the main threats will include wind gusts of 55-65 mph and quarter sized hail, an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. However, portions of Kansas, Nebraska, and northeastern Colorado could experience golf ball sized hail and wind gusts of 65-75 mph in a few stronger storms.

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!”