Severe Storms Target the North

A fresh round of severe weather will sweep across the northern U.S. today and Thursday.
 
A developing low pressure system will help transport plenty of warm and humid air northward across the Plains and Mississippi Valley today and Thursday. At the same time, cooler, drier air filtering southward from Canada will intersect with the warmer air. The resulting clash of air masses will trigger strong to severe thunderstorms later this afternoon across the northern Plains.
 
The government’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, across Nebraska, northwestern Iowa, central and eastern South Dakota, and central North Dakota.
 
Some cities at risk for severe weather include Norfolk, Neb., Sioux Falls, S.D., and Bismarck, N.D. Very large hail and wind gusts in excess of 60 mph will be the primary threats from severe thunderstorms today, though an isolated tornado or two will also be possible.
 
As the developing low pressure system continues to slide eastward for Thursday, the threat of severe thunderstorms will also slide eastward. Already, the Storm Prediction Center has issued a large Slight Risk from Minnesota to Michigan and southward through western Ohio, Indiana, southern and eastern Illinois, northern and western Kentucky, and southeastern Missouri. An Enhanced Risk, or a 3 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, is found across much of Wisconsin, northeastern Illinois, northern Indiana, and southwestern Michigan.
 
All modes of severe weather will be possible on Thursday, including very large hail and a few tornadoes. Cities at risk for severe weather on Thursday include Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, and Louisville, Ky.
 
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"