Surviving the Storm: Tips for Weathering Severe Weather Threats in the Midwest and Eastern US
LATEST UPDATES
- Severe weather hitting Midwest and eastern US: tornadoes, hail, power outages.
- National Weather Service warns of flash floods, tornadoes, and large hail affecting 50 million people.
- Heavy snow forecast for northern Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan.
- Over 43,000 households without power in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana.
- Moderate risk of severe thunderstorms in Ohio Valley; tornado watches in Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana.
- Flood watches extend to Pennsylvania and Maryland.
- Winter storm watch for Upstate New York, northern New England.
- California unlikely to see super bloom due to non-native grasses, increasing wildfire risks.
- Residents urged to stay informed and take precautions for safety.
Tuesday’s weather forecast Severe weather is wreaking havoc across parts of the United States brings threats of hail, tornadoes, and other hazardous conditions to various regions across the country. The impending storm system has triggered alerts and advisories, urging residents to prepare for potentially dangerous weather conditions.
Approximately 50 million people are under severe weather advisories from the National Weather Service, with warnings of flash floods, long-track tornadoes, and large hail, particularly in the Ohio and Tennessee valleys. The Gulf Coast and western portions of Virginia and the Carolinas are also at risk.
Stormy Forecast
The US Storm Prediction Center has issued a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms across the Ohio Valley, including cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Louisville. Tornado watches are in effect for parts of Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Indiana, while flood watches extend as far east as Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Meanwhile, winter weather is expected to return to Upstate New York and northern New England, with a winter storm watch in effect for areas along Lake Ontario’s eastern shore to Maine’s Atlantic coast. Heavy snow and sleet, accompanied by strong winds, may make travel hazardous and impact infrastructure.
Severe Weather Advisories
The National Weather Service has issued severe weather advisories covering approximately 50 million people. These advisories warn of flash floods, long-track tornadoes, and large hail, particularly in the Ohio and Tennessee valleys. Intense storm conditions may extend southward to the Gulf Coast and eastward to western portions of Virginia and the Carolinas.
Midwest Snow Forecast
In addition to severe storms, heavy snowfall is forecasted across northern Illinois, much of Wisconsin, and parts of Michigan. Accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are possible in these areas, with the greatest snowfall expected in eastern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Power Outages
The storm’s impact has already led to power outages affecting over 43,000 households in Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana. As the storm progresses, more households may experience disruptions in power supply, amplifying the challenges posed by severe weather conditions.
Risk of Severe Thunderstorms
The US Storm Prediction Center has identified a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms in the Ohio Valley, including cities like Columbus, Cincinnati, and Louisville. Approximately 8.9 million people are within the path of the most severe weather, while an additional 45 million face an enhanced to slight risk across the eastern US.
Tornado Watches and Flood Advisories
Tornado watches have been issued across parts of Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, and Indiana, with flood watches and advisories stretching as far east as Pennsylvania and Maryland. These warnings highlight the potential for tornadoes and flooding, urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
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Winter Weather Outlook for Eastern States
As the storm progresses, winter conditions are expected to return to eastern states, including Upstate New York and northern New England. A winter storm watch is in effect, with significant snow and sleet forecasted in these regions, accompanied by gusty winds that may impact travel and infrastructure.
Impact on Travel and Infrastructure
The combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds poses significant challenges for travelers and infrastructure. Hazardous road conditions and reduced visibility could make travel treacherous, while the weight of snow and gusty winds may damage trees and disrupt essential services.