Severe storms wreaked havoc across Texas on Monday, bringing damaging tornadoes, heavy rain, and flooding to the region. Millions of people were at risk of tornadoes as the storms swept through the Central Plains, including states like Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma.
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center issued dire warnings for a significant tornado outbreak in the central U.S., spanning from Texas to the Dakotas. Meteorologist Jennifer Thompson emphasized the seriousness of the situation, predicting multiple strong, long-tracked tornadoes, large hail, and severe thunderstorm gusts.
The center warned of “explosive thunderstorm development” and placed the chances for at least two tornadoes at more than 95%. The risk was expected to increase into the evening, with intense tornadoes becoming probable as the atmosphere became more favorable.
Reports of tornadoes began to surface in Oklahoma, with trained spotters and broadcast media spotting tornadoes in various locations. Tornado warnings were issued in several states, including South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.
Preparations were underway to mitigate the impact of the storms, with McConnell Air Force Base relocating aircraft and schools in the danger zone altering their schedules. The forecasted severe weather comes just a week after a tornado outbreak claimed four lives in Oklahoma.
As the region braces for the impending severe weather, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
