A Long Stretch of Severe Storms Is Taking Shape This Week

Severe storms and heavy rain will roam a large swath of the U.S. throughout the week, impacting portions of the Plains, the Midwest, the mid-Atlantic, and the Great Lakes. Those with outdoor plans heading into the Easter weekend will want to plan for lengthy disruptions as classic spring storms track across the region. Read on for a closer look at the anticipated timing and impact zones of this volatile stretch of weather.

Several Pockets of Storms on Deck for Central and Eastern U.S.

Contrary to the cliche, March is also going out as a lion this year. Widespread storms are forecast to erupt across the central and eastern U.S. in the days ahead. Locally dangerous conditions will be a concern at various times this week, including after dark when storms are inherently more concerning. Likely impacts of the series of storms include hail, destructive winds, flooding rainfall, and the threat of tornadoes.

The first action will fire up late Monday across the Upper Midwest. The most significant impact at this time is expected to be large hail. Cities such as Milwaukee will want to stay on top of the developing conditions after the sun goes down. The rain will linger well into Tuesday for the city along Lake Michigan.

Tuesday's storm risk will expand, affecting a swath of land extending over 1,400 miles. The spotty storms are predicted to stretch from northern Texas to the northeast through the Plains, the Midwest, and as far as central New York and the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania. Potential severe impacts of Tuesday's storms include large hail, high winds up to 85 mph, and isolated tornadoes. The greatest threat will set up in an area from northern Indiana and Ohio up into southern Michigan.