Severe Weather Outlook: Transition from Sunny Skies to Stormy Conditions
This article discusses the current pleasant weather in the middle to eastern USA and forecasts severe storm conditions for Friday. Expect high winds, fire risks, and tornado threats, particularly in Missouri. snowfall of 3-6 inches is predicted for northern areas, while the southeast may experience additional storms.
The current weather in the middle to eastern United States is primarily sunny and warm, providing an opportunity to enjoy a total lunar eclipse this evening. Today, temperatures are expected to reach near 80° with abundant sunshine and a light breeze. As nighttime approaches, conditions will remain clear with southerly winds increasing to 15-25 mph and lows around 55°-60°.
However, Friday is predicted to bring significant weather changes with active conditions marked by High Wind and Fire Weather Watches. The High Wind Watch is in effect for the KC area, with reports of wind gusts reaching 40-60 mph anticipated, potentially leading to power outages. Additionally, a Fire Weather Watch is issued due to dry winter brush, increasing the risk of fast-spreading fires.
The severe weather outlook for Friday indicates a substantial risk, particularly in the northeast viewing area, with levels reaching as high as 4 out of 5 in eastern Missouri. Tornado threats are also significant in levels 3 and 4 areas, while the southwest section is at baseline risk.
The storm system’s progression will be marked by strong gusts of wind between 50 and 60 mph on Friday morning as it approaches from the Plains, exhibiting characteristics akin to a low-category hurricane. Thunderstorms are expected to develop by 3 PM and are projected to escalate into severe storms within an hour.
By 5 PM Friday, severe thunderstorms could produce damaging winds and tornadoes, particularly in higher risk areas. As night falls, the storm system will advance toward northern cities like Milwaukee and Chicago, with continued gusty winds and temperatures dropping into the 40s.
On Saturday, winds are forecasted to decrease under cloudy skies with highs in the low 50s. A blizzard will develop in the Dakotas and Minnesota, shifting northward. The southeastern USA will see additional severe thunderstorms, particularly in the Tennessee Valley.
While rainfall projections from Friday to Sunday remain minimal at around a trace to 0.25 inches, a significant snowfall prediction of 3-6 inches is expected for areas in and around Sioux City, Iowa and points north. In summary, the upcoming weekend will showcase a dramatic transition from sunny spring weather to severe storm conditions and winter precipitation.
In conclusion, the weather forecast indicates a stark transition from pleasant conditions today to severe storms expected on Friday. Preparations should be made for high winds and the potential for wildfires. As the storm progresses, severe thunderstorms and possible tornado activity will affect certain regions. Finally, a notable snowfall is anticipated over the weekend, highlighting the volatility of weather patterns during this season.
Original Source: www.kshb.com
