Severe weather and tornadoes have affected various regions including the Plains, Ohio Valley, and Great Lakes for several days. On Wednesday, May 8, 2024, hazardous weather is expected in the Ozarks, Mississippi, Tennessee, and parts of the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. Storms may continue well after dark on Wednesday with an increasing tornado threat overnight. Parts of Oklahoma could also see severe storms later in the afternoon and evening on Wednesday.
The biggest risk for severe storms in Oklahoma is in the southeastern part of the state, where there is a level-three enhanced threat. The tornado risk is low, but golf ball-sized hail and 70 mph winds are possible. In contrast, nearly 50 million people live under at least a 'slight risk' of severe thunderstorms across the mid-Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee Valleys.
Multiple rounds of strong-severe thunderstorms are expected across the region, with significant hazards including tornadoes, very large to giant hail, and potentially damaging winds. Some tornadoes may be strong. The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a 'moderate risk' for parts of central Missouri and central Tennessee.
The severe weather outbreak follows the second-most active April for tornadoes in history, with several states already experiencing damage from twisters. For instance, Michigan was hit hard on Tuesday night, leaving 176 homes damaged and up to 20 injured in a mobile home park near Portage.
Stay informed about the latest weather updates and potential risks by checking your local news sources or emergency management offices.
