Severe Weather Threatens U.S. with Thunderstorms and Fire Hazards
As a potent spring storm sweeps across the United States, several regions face a mix of severe weather, ranging from thunderstorms to heightened fire risks. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a “multi-hazard storm” that will travel from the Central Plains through the Midwest and towards the Great Lakes by midweek.
According to the NWS Storm Prediction Center, “Thunderstorms should increase late this evening and merge into a squall line overnight across parts of the southern and central Plains. Several tornadoes, scattered to numerous severe wind gusts, and large hail are all possible.”
Heavy snowfall combined with strong winds is expected to create treacherous travel conditions, particularly affecting areas like Nebraska and parts of the Midwest through Tuesday. The forecast warns that blowing snow may result in significantly reduced visibility, with potential whiteout conditions.
In the South, a strong cold front will bring severe weather from Louisiana to Virginia, posing threats of damaging winds, tornadoes, and some instances of large hail. On Wednesday, thunderstorms and heavy rain could further exacerbate conditions, leading to “damaging winds and potentially a few tornadoes,” according to the NWS.
Fire Danger in Southern Plains and Carolinas
Red flag warnings are in place across Texas and parts of New Mexico and Oklahoma, signaling increased fire risks due to low humidity, high temperatures, and strong winds. The NWS has issued wind advisories for eastern Texas, extending to East Georgia, with forecasts predicting winds between 20 to 35 mph and gusts up to 55 mph, potentially complicating driving conditions.
The Carolinas also remain on alert for fire danger, with areas already affected by wildfires due to high winds and dry conditions. The NWS noted that “although relative humidity will be higher during the day Tuesday, temperatures will be warmer and winds will be stronger during the afternoon,” with a minimal chance of precipitation until Tuesday evening.
Central North Carolina is experiencing similar threats, with expected wind gusts of 20 to 25 mph, according to the NWS office in Raleigh.
As of Monday evening, the North Carolina Forest Service reported over 193 active fires, while the South Carolina Forestry Commission confirmed more than 4,300 acres have been scorched in South Carolina.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
