Residents in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, are bracing for potential severe storms this week as a storm system moves across the central United States. Last week’s powerful storms have already impacted the region, and now an estimated 15 million people are at risk of severe weather.
The threat of severe weather is expected to escalate on Thursday with the development of storms in the Plains region. As the system progresses, the risk will shift towards the eastern Plains and Midwest by Friday. The primary concerns are hail, damaging winds, and the potential for tornadoes as atmospheric conditions become conducive for severe weather.
Communities in Wichita, Kansas, and Wichita Falls, Texas, are among those in the heightened risk zone for severe weather on Thursday. By Friday, the risk broadens to include a larger area in the heartland where thunderstorms are likely to occur.
Meteorologists warn of the possibility of hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes in several states, including Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas on Friday. Residents in cities like Des Moines, Iowa, Kansas City, Missouri, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, should stay alert and prepare for severe weather conditions.
The Storm Prediction Center is expected to issue watches for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes ahead of the approaching weather event to alert residents to potential hazards. This year has seen above-average tornado activity, with April experiencing an increase in tornadic reports compared to historical averages.
As the tornado threat shifts back to Texas and Oklahoma this week, experts note that severe weather outbreaks are more prevalent during La Niña events. Despite the oceanic conditions currently in a neutral state, the potential for severe storms remains high in specific regions of the central United States. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the upcoming severe weather conditions.