Gusty Thunderstorms Stretch From the Eastern Lakes to the South

A potent cold front will help erupt gusty thunderstorms from the eastern Great Lakes into the Lower Mississippi Valley and Texas today. 

Spring-like warmth and humidity continues to surge northward along and ahead of this front across the Tennessee and Ohio valleys. At the same time, an area of low pressure crossing the Great Lakes is sending cooler and drier air southward. The resulting clash of airmasses will likely lead to some strong to severe thunderstorms today. 

The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a large Marginal Risk, or 1 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, from Texas northeastward into Lower Michigan, Pennsylvania, and western New York. Within this area, a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, has been issued across much of Ohio, southeastern Michigan, western Pennsylvania, and western New York.

Damaging wind gusts and drenching downpour will be the primary impacts from thunderstorms today. However, an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out within the Slight Risk area. 

Cities at the greatest risk for severe weather today include Cincinnati, Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Buffalo, N.Y. Other cities that may be impacted by strong or severe thunderstorms and heavy rain includes Dallas, Little Rock, Ark., Memphis and Nashville, Tenn., Louisville, Ky., and Indianapolis.

In addition to the thunderstorms, locally heavy rainfall may result in flooding concerns, especially across Texas, northern Louisiana, western Mississippi, and western Tennessee. A quick 1 to 2 inches of rain could fall within these rounds of thunderstorms. Localized flooding is a possibility, especially near rivers, creeks and streams as well as urban, low-lying and more flood prone areas. If you do approach a flooded roadway, remember it’s always best to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” 

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they be issued. A "watch" means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur, and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A "warning" means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"