Two separate systems are set to bring severe storms to various parts of the United States over the next few days, posing threats such as tornadoes, damaging winds, hail, and potential flooding.
Beginning Sunday afternoon, roughly 40 million people spanning from Ohio to Connecticut are under the threat of severe storms. Eastern Ohio to northern Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, faces a Level 3 out of 5 risk for severe storms. Major cities like New York and Philadelphia also have a Level 1 of 5 risk for severe weather on Sunday.
As the week progresses, a new system will develop across the Central US, extending the threat of severe storms from Texas to South Dakota by Monday and Tuesday. Damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes are possible, particularly in western Oklahoma and northern Texas, where a Level 3 out of 5 risk exists. The storms are expected to intensify late Monday afternoon and move eastward through the evening.
It is crucial for residents in these areas to stay informed and prepared, especially before going to sleep, as nighttime tornadoes are known to be more dangerous due to reduced visibility. Overnight storms are likely, and it is recommended to have weather alerts enabled to ensure timely warnings.
On Tuesday, the severe storm threat will shift from southern Wisconsin to Louisiana, with damaging winds being the primary concern. Hail and isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out, particularly in southern Iowa and Missouri during the mid-afternoon and early evening.
Both systems also bring the risk of flooding. Pennsylvania, already saturated from a wet April, faces a significant flooding risk on Sunday. Pittsburgh, for instance, is on track to break its April rainfall record, with forecasts predicting 1 to 2 inches of additional rain.
Monday poses a risk of excessive rainfall from northern Texas to North Dakota, with the Midwest expected to face flooding by Tuesday as the moisture spreads eastward. Cities like Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Fort Wayne, Indiana, are already experiencing minor flooding, with more rain on the way.
Widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches are anticipated from Nebraska to Wisconsin through Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of staying vigilant and prepared for severe weather conditions.
