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Spotty Severe Storms Possible In The Midwest, Central Plains

July 11, 2022
By Weatherbug Meteorologist, Mark Ellinwood
A cold front advancing through the center of the country will be the focal point for storm development throughout today.

An upper-level weather system will be moving across the north-central U.S. today, dragging a cold front across the Great Lakes, Midwest, Mid-Mississippi Valley and central Plains. This cold front separates hot and very humid air to the south with cooler and drier air filter in behind it. The collision of these two air masses will be where dangerous thunderstorms fire up throughout today.

The Storm Prediction Center has highlighted the best chance for severe storms with a Slight Risk that covers parts of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and northwestern Ohio. This includes Chicago, Peoria and Springfield, Ill., Fort Wayne, Ind., Toledo, Ohio, and Kalamazoo, Mich. Just outside of the greatest risk area includes Indianapolis and Detroit.

The main concerns with any thunderstorm that develops today will be damaging wind gusts and large hail. However, an isolated tornado or two cannot be ruled out. Some storms could also produce a quick 1 to 2 inches of rain in localized areas, possibly resulting flash flooding. Remember, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” if you approach a flooded roadway.

Further to the north and west, storms are less likely to develop across eastern Minnesota, Wisconsin and northern Michigan as well as from Missouri and Kansas into southeastern Colorado, but some isolated activity could still pop up near the cold front this afternoon and evening.

Be sure to understand the difference between severe thunderstorm or tornado watches and warnings. When a watch is issued, then conditions are favorable for dangerous weather. When a warning is issued, it means that dangerous weather has already been observed and is imminent in your location, and you should take immediate action to protect life and property. Always stay indoors during a thunderstorm of any strength, and if you encounter a flooded area, remember: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!”