A spring storm system is expected to bring tornadoes, heavy rain, strong winds, and snow to a large portion of the U.S. affecting about 38 million people from Texas to Illinois. Severe storms are predicted to develop on Monday afternoon and last through the night, with damaging winds, hail, and the possibility of EF2 tornadoes in some areas. The biggest threat for strong tornadoes is in an area from northeast Oklahoma to central Missouri. Nighttime tornadoes are known to be twice as deadly as daytime ones, so residents are advised to be prepared to take action if watches and warnings are issued for their area.
On Monday, intense storms are forecast from Texas to Illinois, with heavy rain increasing the flood risk in the Ohio River Valley. The severe risk is expected to shift east into Tennessee and the Ohio River Valley on Tuesday, with heavy downpours potentially leading to localized flooding. By Wednesday, heavy wet snow is likely to develop for New England, with the possibility of up to 18 inches of snow from the Great Lakes into Maine. Flood watches are in effect for eight million people across the Ohio River Valley into the Appalachians, with the risk of excessive rainfall in various regions.
As the storm system moves east on Tuesday and Wednesday, rainfall could reach up to 3 inches from Kansas City to New England, and up to 18 inches of snow is possible in parts of the north. Over the Easter weekend, the same system brought heavy rain to California, causing severe flooding in Santa Barbara County where drivers were stranded and a portion of Highway 1 collapsed into the ocean. In San Jose, lightning struck close to an airplane, while in Truckee, two people were killed in a plane crash after receiving 14 inches of snow.
The severe weather across the U.S. over the weekend and into the coming week has led to dangerous conditions and significant impacts, from flooding and road closures to airplane incidents and tragic accidents. The widespread nature of the storm system and the various types of severe weather it is bringing pose risks to millions of people across multiple states. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared to take action in case of severe weather warnings.
Overall, the spring storm system is expected to bring a range of severe weather conditions, including tornadoes, damaging winds, heavy rain, and snow, affecting millions of people from Texas to New England. The risk of severe storms is forecast to be particularly high on Monday and Tuesday, with the potential for significant impacts such as flooding, hail, and tornadoes. It is critical for residents in these areas to stay informed, follow weather advisories, and have a plan in place for staying safe during severe weather events.
