Central U.S. Braces for Severe Storms, Tornadoes Near Kansas City

A significant weather event is forecasted to unfold across the central United States and portions of the southern states, commencing Friday afternoon. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), this event marks the onset of a series of severe spring storms, characterized by the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and the looming threat of tornadoes.

The impending storms, slated to begin Friday afternoon and persist into the evening, are expected to bring about various hazards. The NWS Storm Prediction Center warns of possible wind damage, highlighting the likelihood of large hail exceeding two inches in diameter and the formation of tornadoes.

Of particular concern is a 10% risk of tornadoes, which encompasses a population of over 4.5 million individuals, including residents of Kansas City, Missouri; Omaha, Nebraska; Des Moines, Iowa; and several areas in Kansas.

Moreover, the Storm Prediction Center has identified an “enhanced risk” for severe thunderstorms affecting more than 4 million people, including parts of Nebraska (Omaha and Lincoln), Kansas City, and Des Moines. Additionally, a marginal risk exists for more than 15 million individuals, encompassing areas such as Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

Further complicating the situation, certain areas face heightened risks. San Antonio and Austin in Texas, along with St. Louis and portions of Wisconsin and Louisiana, are all under a “slight risk,” collectively affecting over 17 million people.

In addition to the immediate severe weather threats, there is a notable risk of excessive rainfall on Friday, particularly in parts of eastern Oklahoma, northeastern Texas, western Arkansas, and southern Missouri. The NWS cautions that this could lead to flash floods. On Saturday, central and northeastern Oklahoma are expected to face a “moderate risk” of excessive rainfall.

The scale of the impending severe weather is significant, with more than 4.8 million people residing in areas facing an “enhanced risk” on Friday, and over 32 million people under “marginal” and “slight” risks.

Beyond the immediate weather concerns, dry weather conditions have elevated the fire risk in El Paso, Texas, and parts of New Mexico (including Las Cruces, Roswell, Alamogordo, and Clovis). This heightened fire risk is anticipated to persist through the weekend.

This weekend’s weather warnings are the latest in a series of severe spring weather events. Earlier this year, a system impacted the central U.S., and multiple atmospheric river storms have hit California. These weather patterns have resulted in casualties and injuries, underlining the importance of preparedness and caution during severe weather occurrences.