Strong Storms Target S. Plains and the South

A pair of storm systems will help ignite strong to severe thunderstorms across the southern Plains and parts of the South today. 

Starting in the southern Plains, a developing low pressure system and its associated front will be the focal point for the strongest thunderstorms this afternoon into tonight. Fueled by plenty of warm, unstable air and strong winds aloft, thunderstorms will erupt late this afternoon and continue into tonight. 

The government's Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk, or a 2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, across portions of western Oklahoma into northwestern Texas. 

Damaging wind gusts and large hail will be the primary threats from these thunderstorms today. Cities such as Amarillo, Lubbock, and Wichita Falls, Texas and Woodward, Okla. are all at risk from severe thunderstorms. 

Farther to the east, another low pressure system will bring scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms to portions of the Deep South into the southern Appalachian Mountains and the Tennessee and Ohio valleys. Here, conditions are only marginally favorable for severe thunderstorms, though isolated damaging wind gusts and even a tornado cannot be ruled out. This includes cities such as Starkville, Miss., Nashville, Tenn., and Bowling Green, Ky. 

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 should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today’s severe weather. Remember, “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”