Millions at Risk from Texas to Virginia: Tornadoes and Damaging Winds Threat

A storm system is sweeping through the United States, bringing the possibility of severe storms, flooding, and snow to central and eastern regions.

On Monday, the risk of damaging weather is increasing, with over 50 million people facing the threat of severe storms from Texas to Virginia.

Over the weekend, the atmospheric energy that caused thunderstorms and heavy rain in California will also contribute to the severe weather threat at the beginning of the week.

Officials reported that the intense rainfall led to a section of Highway 1 in Big Sur collapsing into the ocean on Saturday. As a result, drivers will need to be guided through the affected area for the next few days.

Part of California's Highway 1 in the Big Sur area is shown on Sunday after crumbling into the ocean on Saturday.

Part of California's Highway 1 in the Big Sur area is shown on Sunday after crumbling into the ocean on Saturday.

Caltrans District 5/Handout

Now the focus for damaging weather turns to the eastern two-thirds of the country. Here’s how the threats will play out over the next few days.

Monday will bring a widespread risk of damaging wind gusts and tornadoes. Severe thunderstorms are expected in a large area spanning nearly 1,500 miles across the central and eastern US. The highest risk will be concentrated from the Plains to the Midwest.

A Level 3 of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms is currently in effect from northeastern Texas to far western Indiana, as reported by the Storm Prediction Center. This risk area includes cities like Dallas, Oklahoma City, and St. Louis.

Within this region, thunderstorms have the potential to bring damaging wind gusts and hail ranging from the size of quarters to baseballs. Additionally, there is a chance of tornadoes, with a few possibly reaching EF2 strength or higher.

The highest risk for powerful tornadoes is in northeastern Oklahoma, southeastern Kansas, and Missouri, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours.

Severe thunderstorms will be most intense in the late afternoon and evening in the Plains region, but this will not be the case for areas further east.

A Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms is expected in parts of the Midwest and Ohio Valley on Monday. These storms are anticipated to be most intense during the late evening and overnight hours, bringing with them the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and possibly a few tornadoes.

Studies have revealed that nighttime tornadoes are over twice as deadly as those that occur during the day. The darkness makes it harder to see tornadoes approaching, leading to a higher fatality rate as many individuals are asleep when these dangerous weather events strike.

Thunderstorms will move eastward into the mid-Atlantic overnight, with the severe impact threat becoming less widespread.

These storms will bring heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding in the affected areas.

Over 8 million people from eastern Indiana to western Maryland are under flood watches on Monday and Tuesday. There is a possibility of 1 to 4 inches of rainfall, with isolated areas potentially seeing up to 5 inches.

On Tuesday, the severe storm system will move eastward.

CNN Weather

The threat of severe thunderstorms will move eastward on Tuesday, affecting areas from the Gulf Coast to the Ohio Valley.

On Tuesday, there is a Level 3 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms from northern Alabama to southern Ohio. This area includes cities like Nashville and Louisville, Kentucky, which are at the highest risk.

Tuesday brings a Level 2 out of 5 risk for surrounding states. These areas may experience storms that can bring damaging wind gusts, hail, and a few tornadoes.

As the cold air moves in, the northern part of the storm will see rain turning into snow and a wintry mix by later Tuesday in some parts of the Midwest and Great Lakes. Rain and snow showers are expected to linger in these regions through Thursday.

Some cities like Chicago may see a few snowflakes, but there won't be much snow accumulating. The heaviest snowfall is predicted for northern Michigan and Wisconsin.

The winter weather will move towards the interior Northeast on Wednesday. Areas like the Green, White, and Adirondack Mountains could get up to a foot of snow by Thursday.

The major cities across the Northeast, including New York City, Boston and Philadelphia, are currently forecast to see rain.

CNN’s Sara Smart contributed to this report.

Editor's P/S:

The impending storm system poses a significant threat to millions across the central and eastern United States. The potential for severe storms, flooding, and snow highlights the importance of preparedness and safety measures. Residents in affected areas should monitor weather updates closely, heed warnings, and take necessary precautions to minimize risks.

The article outlines the specific areas and timelines for the anticipated severe weather, including the elevated risk of damaging winds, tornadoes, and heavy rainfall. It emphasizes the increased danger associated with nighttime tornadoes, urging individuals to stay alert and seek shelter if necessary. As the storm system progresses eastward, it will bring the potential for flooding and a transition to wintry conditions in some regions. The article provides valuable information for residents to stay informed and take appropriate actions to ensure their safety and well-being during this impactful weather event. significant snowfall. It is important for residents in affected areas to monitor weather forecasts and heed warnings from local officials to ensure safety and minimize potential damage.