Gusty Storms, Heavy Rain Impacts the Midwest to the Southeast

Drenching thunderstorms with locally gusty winds will develop across portions of the Midwest into the East and South today.
 
Starting in the Midwest, a developing low pressure system will bring a swath of moderate to locally heavy rainfall from Nebraska to Wisconsin today into tonight. In fact, rainfall totals up to 3 inches will be possible, leading to some flooding concerns. A Flood Watch is currently in effect across portions of Nebraska into northwestern Iowa.
 
On the leading edge of this low pressure system, a few gusty thunderstorms are likely to erupt during the afternoon and evening hours. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk for severe weather across portions of northeastern Iowa into southwestern Wisconsin where damaging winds greater than 60 mph, 1 inch or larger hail, and even a few tornadoes will be possible. Mason City, Iowa, Rochester, Minn., and Madison, Wis., are included in this risk area.
 
Farther to the east, it will remain quite warm and humid across much of the Midwest into the Mid-Atlantic. Here, isolated stronger storms may produce wind gusts in excess of 50 mph and small hail.
 
Farther south, even hotter and more humid air can be found from southern Virginia through the Carolinas and into Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. The combination of the heating of the day and a pool of cooler air aloft, the atmosphere is primed for a scattering of gusty thunderstorms later this afternoon and evening. Wind gusts in excess of 50 mph, small hail, and localized flooding will be possible this afternoon.
 
In fact, many of these same areas from southern Virgina through the Southeast states may see additional scattered showers and storms on Friday that produce locally strong wind gusts and heavy downpours. Remember, if you see a flooded roadway, “Turn around, don’t drown!”
 
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"