Severe storms are in the forecast through the beginning of the coming week for high-population spots in the central U.S. Those from the Plains and Ozarks through the Midwest will need to pay close attention to the forecast.

Starting Thursday, a low pressure system carrying a potent cold front will swing east from the Rockies and run into a warm, water-laden air mass. This will trigger severe storms from Wichita Falls, Texas, to northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, especially from eastern Kansas to Minneapolis. Tornadoes, damaging winds and hail are all expected.

By Friday, the front shifts south and east. While thunderstorms are expected throughout the day, severe storms are possible with the afternoon heating. This includes a tornado risk, especially for those from Dallas to southern Missouri.

We have an eye on weekend severe storms for the central and southern Plains. Residents with outdoor plans should keep a close eye on the WeatherRadar and have their alerts switched on.