Severe Storm Risk Increases Across The Midwest, Plains

A strengthening storm system and its trailing cold front will trigger severe thunderstorms across the Midwest and Plains today and tonight, with the greatest risk focusing on the Upper Midwest.

Ongoing storms along a warm front will continue to push eastward into the Upper Midwest this morning and afternoon. The same region will see heat and instability rise behind the warm front, with new storms expected to form this afternoon and evening.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued Moderate and Enhanced Risks across much of the region, with the focus being on Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and the northern portions of Missouri and Illinois. Strong wind gusts, large hail, and tornadoes are likely this afternoon through tonight.

Further south, a cold front will extend across much of the Midwest and Plains. This front will trigger scattered thunderstorm activity, with pockets of severe storms possible. A Slight Risk for severe weather extends across much of the southwestern and east-central Plains, including Omaha and Lincoln, Neb., Wichita, Kan., Oklahoma City, and Abilene and Midland, Texas. This region could see all modes of severe weather, including gusty winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes. Most of this activity will form in the evening and overnight hours.

As the disturbance progresses eastward into the Great Lakes on Tuesday, its cold front will stretch out, with the southern end of the front lingering across the southern Plains. The greatest risk for severe storms on Tuesday will remain near the storm's center across the eastern Great Lakes and Ohio Valley, with more sporadic severe storms possible across the southern Plains and Middle Mississippi Valley.

The best protection is staying informed through reliable sources like the WeatherBug app and having an emergency kit ready with essentials like water, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered radio. As always, heed the lifesaving advice: "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"