Tornado Threat:: A Level 3 of 5 severe storm threat is in effect for parts of the Midwest, including Chicago, Des Moines, and Milwaukee. Supercells could produce intense tornadoes.
Hail Threat:: Softball-sized hail (up to 4 inches in diameter) is possible in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, with a more widespread threat in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This hail can fall at speeds approaching 100 mph, causing significant damage.
Flooding:: Heavy rain and snowmelt are causing significant flooding in the Great Lakes region, particularly in Michigan and Wisconsin. Flood Watches are in effect, with some rivers expected to surpass all-time record crests.
Northeast Impacts:: Damaging wind gusts and heavy downpours are the primary threats from northeastern Pennsylvania into southern New England.
The severe weather outbreak is driven by a combination of factors, including a strong upper-level disturbance, a surge of warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, and record-breaking spring warmth.
Midwest: The greatest potential for intense tornadoes is concentrated across eastern Iowa, northern Illinois, and southern Wisconsin. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) expanded the Level 3 Enhanced Risk zone deeper into the Great Lakes region, putting major population centers on high alert. The threat may transition into a damaging wind event as storms congeal into a fast-moving line across the Great Lakes.
Great Lakes Flooding: A dangerous combination of record-breaking snowpack and relentless rain has pushed the Great Lakes region into a high-stakes flooding emergency. Several locations are forecast to shatter all-time record crests. For example, the Menominee River is forecast to peak at 16.5 feet at Niagara and 20 feet near McAllister, both of which would surpass previous all-time records.
Northeast: Severe storms are expected to develop across portions of the Northeast, bringing damaging wind gusts and localized hail to the I-87 corridor and beyond.
Impact on Travel: Ground stops and mounting delays are frustrating travelers at O’Hare and Midway airports in Chicago due to the storms.
What areas are most at risk for tornadoes?
** Eastern Iowa, northern Illinois, and southern Wisconsin.
How big can the hail get?
** Up to 4 inches in diameter (softball-sized) in some areas.
What should I do if a flash flood warning is issued?
** Move to higher ground immediately and avoid driving through flooded areas.
The severe weather outbreak poses significant risks. Stay informed about local weather conditions and heed warnings from authorities. Be prepared to take shelter if a tornado or severe thunderstorm approaches. Those in flood-prone areas should monitor river gauges and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Prepare an emergency kit and have a plan in place.
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