Severe Storms Expected to Hit Midwest and East This Weekend

CHICAGO, Ill. — A new storm system is set to bring severe weather to the Midwest this weekend, with widespread impacts expected through the East Coast by Monday as March comes to a close.

Severe storms, including strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail, are anticipated starting Saturday night in the Plains, specifically targeting areas like northeast Oklahoma, eastern Kansas, and western Missouri. The potential for tornadoes remains a concern as the system progresses.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration‘s Storm Prediction Center has highlighted a significant threat for severe weather on Sunday, particularly in the southern Great Lakes and up through eastern Texas. Major cities at risk include St. Louis, Indianapolis, Little Rock, Arkansas, Louisville, Kentucky, and Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee. The storms may begin in the western part of the threat zone before advancing eastward.

“Very large hail and damaging winds are expected, with a few tornadoes rated EF2 or higher possible,” said a spokesperson from the Storm Prediction Center. “Residents should have a way to receive warnings during the evening and overnight hours.”

As the system moves eastward, severe weather is likely to impact cities from Atlanta to New York City on Monday. Initial storms may develop early in the morning across the southeastern states, particularly affecting Charlotte and Raleigh in North Carolina, Jacksonville, Florida, and Washington, D.C.

Wind damage poses the greatest threat in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Meanwhile, in the southeastern U.S., storms could bring large hail and a slight chance of tornadoes.

The atmospheric setup leading to this multi-day severe weather threat is characteristic of late March, featuring a plunge in the jet stream that directs moisture from the Gulf of Mexico northward. A strong low-pressure system will move from Kansas to New York over the weekend, contributing to enhanced wind shear.

Weather experts advise residents in affected areas to remain vigilant as the storm system approaches and to stay updated with local forecasts.