Millions Across The Midwest, South Under Threat Of Flash Floods, Tornadoes

The Midwest and South are preparing for a severe weather outbreak, including life-threatening flash flooding, hail, and tornadoes. According to the Storm Prediction Center, a multi-day severe weather event is expected to begin Tuesday (April 1) afternoon and continue through Wednesday (April 2). This comes on the heels of recent storms that caused significant damage and fatalities across the central United States.

The storm system will move out of the Rockies and intensify as it reaches the Plains. Areas from Texas to Iowa are under a severe thunderstorm risk, with the most significant threat in parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. These regions could experience strong tornadoes and large hail. By Wednesday, over 43 million people in cities like St. Louis, Indianapolis, and Chicago are at risk of severe thunderstorms.

The storms are expected to bring torrential rain, leading to a prolonged flooding threat. A stalled front will funnel moisture from the Gulf into the Mississippi and Ohio valleys, potentially causing historic flash flooding. The National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, warns of a life-threatening flooding event, with some areas possibly receiving more than 15 inches of rain by Saturday (April 5).

In preparation, airlines like Southwest and United are waiving change fees for flights in affected areas. Residents are advised to stay alert and have a plan to seek shelter if needed. The severe weather threat will continue into the weekend, with the potential for additional storms and flooding in the lower Mississippi and Tennessee valleys.