Pesky Cold Front Delivering Plenty of Severe Storms

A line of strong thunderstorms will develop this evening with a primary focus over portions of the Midwest and Mississippi Valley.

A pesky cold front along with an upper-level disturbance will be the main drivers for this evening’s severe weather threat in the central U.S. A humid, soupy environment will continue to hold down the fort and temperatures will remain warm, leading to an abundance daytime heating. With strong instability and brisk winds aloft, all the ingredients are in place for severe thunderstorms to develop. 

The government’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, across portions of the Midwest and Mississippi Valley. This includes Columbus, Ohio, much of Kentucky, Little Rock, Ark. and down along the Red River in Oklahoma and Texas. Destructive winds will be a concern as wind gusts exceeding 60 mph will be likely. Hail larger than a quarter will be likely in any established storms.

A Tornado Watch has been issued for parts of western Kentucky. This includes Elizabethtown, Ky. 

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for parts of southeastern western Pennsylvania, parts of West Virginia, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and far northern Tennessee. This includes Pittsburgh, Wheeling, W. Va., Detroit, Columbus and Sandusky, Ohio, Lexington, Ky. and Nashville, Tenn. Damaging wind gusts and heavy downpours will be the primary concerns with this watch. 

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for parts of northern Texas and far southwestern Oklahoma. This includes Chlidress, Texas and Lawton, Okla. 

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!"