Severe Storms to Strike Central U.S. Sparking Tornadoes, Floods, and Hail

By Friday, the same storm system that is bringing snow to the Pacific Northwest mountains will shift east out of the Rocky Mountains and into the central U.S. This area of low pressure will produce severe thunderstorms, and the moisture from the Gulf of Mexico will only add fuel to this fire, bringing heavy rain and the potential for flooding.

Residents from southern South Dakota to Nebraska should be prepared for hail and damaging winds on Friday during the day, and areas of Iowa and northern Missouri should be prepared to get hit with the same threats Friday night.

Into the Weekend

Friday and Saturday is expected to bring severe weather to areas of Lincoln, Nebraska; Omaha, Nebraska; Des Moines, Iowa; and Kansas City. In the midst of football season, it's likely that these storms will cause disruption to outdoor games and events on Friday evening and Saturday.

Residents from Minnesota to Oklahoma should be prepared for severe weather threats on Saturday as a cold front will help ignite the storms, bringing strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall.

Individuals traveling in or around these areas should stay informed as travel delays could happen, including reduced visibility on the road and flight delays or cancellations.

Much-Needed Moisture

Although these storms may pose a risk to some areas, the moisture the storm is bringing is much welcomed to the drought-stricken region. According to the US Drought Monitor, many parts of the Plains have been categorized to an exceptional degree, whereas other areas are considered moderate.

Lincoln, Nebraska and Minneapolis are two areas that have only received around 70% of their typical rainfall compared to historical averages.

Because of the drought, many river levels have suffered, including the Mississippi river, which is closing in on historically low levels, posing a challenge for local business transportation. Farmers in particular that ship crops to the Gulf of Mexico are struggling as transport prices have risen.

So, although the storms may cause an inconvenience to many, it will also bring relief to areas that desperately need it.