Severe Thunderstorms and Fire Weather Threaten Millions Across Central and Southern U.S.

A powerful storm system is forecast to bring severe thunderstorms and fire weather to a large swath of the central and southern United States on Thursday, putting millions of residents at risk. The National Weather Service has warned that the storms could spawn damaging winds, torrential rain, large hail, and even a few tornadoes across eight states.

The highest risk areas include southern Indiana, Illinois, western Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Arkansas, southeastern Oklahoma, and central Texas. These regions are expected to experience the most intense storms, with the potential for wind damage, flash flooding, and isolated tornadoes.

The severe weather threat comes just days after many of the same areas were pummeled by large hailstones and high winds from a previous storm system. With the ground already saturated in some locations, the risk of flash flooding is heightened.

Why this matters: Severe thunderstorms pose a significant threat to life and property, especially when they occur over populated areas. Residents in the affected regions should closely monitor local weather forecasts, have a plan in place to seek safe shelter, and be prepared for potential power outages and dangerous road conditions.

In addition to the severe thunderstorm risk, portions of the Great Lakes and Northeast will see rain showers associated with a warm front moving through the region. Meanwhile, a heatwave continues to grip the Southeast, with near-record high temperatures expected in North Carolina and Florida.

The National Weather Service advises those in the path of the storms to stay informed and be ready to act quickly if threatening weather approaches. "Have multiple ways to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio, your local media, and smartphone apps," said Bill Bunting, Chief of Forecast Operations at the Storm Prediction Center. Residents are also encouraged to review their severe weather safety plans and know where to seek shelter if necessary.

Key Takeaways

• Severe storms forecast to hit central/southern US on Thursday, risking damaging winds, hail, tornadoes.
• High-risk areas include Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas.
• Threat comes after recent storms, heightening flash flood risk due to saturated ground.
• Residents advised to monitor forecasts, have safety plans, and be ready to seek shelter.
• Northeast to see rain, Southeast to experience heatwave as weather systems move through.