The Storm Prediction Center has issued a severe storm alert that will affect several areas of the south-central United States tonight. The forecast warns of the possibility of strong tornadoes, destructive wind gusts, and large hail. This makes this episode one of the most significant weather events in recent months.
According to the SPC, the regions at greatest risk range from northern Texas and Oklahoma to the mid-Mississippi Valley and the lower Ohio Valley. The provided map shows a moderate risk area centered in eastern Oklahoma, western Arkansas, and northeastern Texas. It is there where the most intense activity is expected, including high-intensity tornadoes.
Significant atmospheric instability in the US
In this region, a line of storms oriented from southwest to northeast has formed, which has already produced significant atmospheric instability. Within this structure, active supercells have been identified, capable of generating dangerous tornadoes and winds that could exceed 75 mph (120 km/h). These systems are expected to continue moving eastward during the night.
Meanwhile, the SPC has expanded the watch area toward the mid-Mississippi Valley and the lower Ohio Valley. There, atmospheric conditions remain conducive to severe storms. Intense wind gusts could spread widely across these areas during the early morning.
In Kansas and the Missouri River Valley, storms tend to diminish toward the night. But isolated pockets of severe weather persist, especially where the atmosphere remains unstable after the passage of the dry front. Additionally, short-term models suggest the development of new storms tonight in central and eastern Oklahoma.
There is also the threat of hail
All this is due to the arrival of an upper-level disturbance. This new outbreak could continue with the threat of hail and strong winds until early Wednesday morning. Meteorological authorities recommend that the population in the affected areas stay informed.
As well as review emergency plans and be prepared to take immediate action in case tornado or severe storm alerts are issued. The situation will continue to be closely monitored by the SPC and local weather services. In any case, everything indicates it is another episode of the typical spring instability in this part of the country.