70 million at risk of severe storms, “intense” tornadoes possible Monday

May 6, 2024

After an outbreak of severe weather, including tornadoes, over the past week, the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) is warning of potential danger for the Plains and Central U.S. today.

According to Axios, the SPC says, “Multiple strong/potentially long-track tornadoes, very large to giant hail, and severe/damaging winds all appear likely” to hit the region on Monday.  

Central Oklahoma has been issued a “moderate risk” assessment which is level 4 out of 5 on the SPC’s danger scale.

Axios reports that the expected outbreak of severe weather is tied to a deep dip in the jet stream with a cold pool of air aloft that will descend upon the Southwest and then swing across the Plains.

The severe weather threat will continue through Wednesday with more than 70 million people at risk.

As the system moves to the East starting on Tuesday, numerous cities including Indianapolis, Columbus, Memphis, Nashville and Cincinnati will also be at risk for severe weather.

This latest outbreak follows a series of more than 300 tornadoes being reported across the country during the month of April.

Photo: top, Credit: Pivotal Weather