A powerful storm system is set to unleash damaging hail, wind, and tornadoes as it moves through parts of the Mississippi Valley and Midwest on Tuesday. The storm system has already produced tornadoes in the Plains overnight, with severe thunderstorms observed in the region at sunrise.
At least two tornadoes were reported on Monday night, one in eastern Kansas and the other in far southern Nebraska, according to the National Weather Service. The storms are expected to maintain their strength as they move into the Midwest throughout the afternoon.
Forecasters predict that additional storms will develop on Tuesday afternoon from Iowa to Arkansas, moving eastward into the evening. The storms have the potential to bring hail, strong winds, and tornadoes, with the most significant threats expected in Iowa, northern Missouri, and west-central Illinois.
A Level 3 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms has been issued for this area, including cities like Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A larger portion of the Midwest is under a Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms on Tuesday.
In addition to severe weather, pockets of heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding in parts of the northern Plains and Mississippi Valley. Rainfall totals could reach up to 3 inches, with rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour in some areas.
Already saturated areas like Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Milwaukee are at risk of further flooding, with several river gauges already at minor flood stage. The incoming rain could overwhelm rivers and streams, exacerbating the flood risk.
Looking ahead, the storm system is expected to move eastward on Wednesday, bringing scattered thunderstorms and severe weather threats to the Ohio Valley and Southern regions. Gusty winds accompanying the storms are also contributing to an elevated risk of fire across the Southwest through Wednesday morning.
Red flag warnings are in effect in New Mexico, Texas, parts of Colorado, and northeast Montana due to the combination of strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. The National Weather Service is urging caution to prevent wildfires, advising people to avoid activities that could spark fires and to adhere to burn bans.
Simple fire prevention measures such as properly discarding cigarettes, avoiding open flames or sparks, and obeying burn bans can help mitigate the risk of wildfires in the affected areas.
