Severe Storms Target the Plains This Weekend

Severe weather season is getting underway across the Plains this weekend, with threats for damaging winds, hail, and even a few tornadoes.

A large dome of high pressure building over the Southeast states will help bring an ample supply of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico into the southern Plains today. At the same time, drier air will advance northeastward from northwestern Mexico. 

The collision of these two air masses, combined with some strong winds aloft, will result in scattered severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening across part of the southern High Plains. The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, for western Texas and eastern New Mexico today.

Damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes will all be possible today, which includes cities such as Lubbock, Midland, and Fort Stockton, Texas.

A few gusty thunderstorms will also be possible this afternoon across the central Rockies into the central Plains and upper Mississippi Valley. Denver, Wichita, Kan., Omaha, Neb., Des Moines, Iowa, and Minneapolis are at risk for a stronger thunderstorm later today into tonight. 

Severe thunderstorms will remain possible on Sunday across portions of the southern and central Plains. A Slight Risk has already been issued for Sunday spanning portions of central and western Texas to central Kansas. 

Cities such as Abilene, Texas, Oklahoma City, and Wichita, Kan., are at risk for storms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes on Sunday. 

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!"