Potent Storms Take Aim at Mid-Atlantic, Central U.S.

Another round of strong to severe thunderstorms will develop across the Mid-Atlantic along with parts of the Central U.S. through today.

Multiple weather systems will be the catalyst for strong to severe thunderstorms today. A potent disturbance will track across the Mid-Atlantic this afternoon and evening, bringing with it the potential for strong to severe thunderstorms. At the same time, a cold front will spark a few strong to severe thunderstorms in parts of North Dakota later today. There will also be thunderstorms developing along the boundary between a warm, humid air mass and colder, drier air filtering in, which is also known as a dry line. This boundary will be found in the south-central U.S.

The primary risks with these thunderstorms will be heavy downpours, damaging wind gusts up to 55 to 65 mph, and hail. This severe weather could cause delays and hamper any holiday weekend celebrations. 

The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued three Slight Risks (level 2 out of 5) for severe weather today. The first will be found across southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and northern Virginia. The second is a small portion of north-central North Dakota. The last area includes parts of central Texas. Cities under this risk include Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Wilmington, Del., Atlantic City, N.J., Arlington, Va., Minot, N.D., and Lubbock and Abilene, Texas.

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!"