Active Central Plains: Multi-day with severe storms

The weekend ended with a few tornados ripping through Oklahoma, and the week started with more rounds of severe storms over parts of the Central Plains. Here’s the forecast.

An upper-level low pressure over the western U.S. will move east today and inject instability across the Central Plains. This time, the bullseye is centered across northeastern Colorado, extending to southern Minnesota, including much of Nebraska and Iowa. Over 16 million people are under a slight risk of severe storms and over 200,000 people are at a higher, level 3 of 5, enhanced risk of severe storms. This risk includes Kearney, Neb., North Platte, Neb., Sterling, Colo., and Lexington Neb. These cities and surroundings could experience several significant tornadoes, damaging winds of at least 75 mph, and large hail.

Chicago also needs to be aware that some storms could rip through town. The atmosphere is primed with plenty of moisture and the day’s heating will aid thunderstorms to develop which can produce 60 mph damaging winds and large hail. Flooding could also be possible in some isolated spots. The main threat of severe weather will happen between noon and 7 p.m. It is important to highlight and preview the risk for severe storms and Chicago could have a higher risk for more numerous severe storms on Tuesday. Tuesday’s tornadoes and 70 mph damaging winds will be more likely in the evening, after 6 p.m.

We should write a preview of what will likely happen on Tuesday in the Central Plains and Midwest. With more moisture and heat available in the atmosphere on Tuesday, the chance for severe storms expands to a much larger section of the Central Plains. Over 15 million people are at increased risk of severe storms, level 3 of 5. Highly populated cities, such as Kansas City, Madison, Wisconsin, and Des Moines, Iowa, are at risk of numerous storms, including tornadoes, damaging winds of at least 80 mph, and large hail. But there is a higher risk and more dangerous hours over Davenport, Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, and Rock Island, level 4 of 5. This means it is much more confident that severe and destructive weather will likely impact this area starting Tuesday afternoon.

We will continue to bring you updates about the storms and have a full staff in full storm mode on Tuesday. Please check back often.