Severe Weather Threatens Central and Southern Great Plains After Tornadoes Devastate Nebraska and Iowa
Just one day after tornadoes wreaked havoc in parts of Nebraska and Iowa, severe thunderstorms and high winds are expected to sweep across the central and southern Great Plains on Saturday. Forecasters are warning of possible tornadoes and large hail in northern Texas, Oklahoma, and southeastern Kansas.
A rare “particularly dangerous situation” tornado watch has been issued for western Oklahoma and parts of northern Texas, indicating that forecasters have high confidence that intense tornadoes could form and track over a long distance. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and take cover if necessary.
The Weather Service office in Norman, Oklahoma, issued a notice warning of “dangerous supercell thunderstorms” that could produce strong tornadoes. With many public events taking place and people out of school and work, there is a heightened concern for those who may be caught in the storms.
The potential for tornadoes is expected to increase throughout the afternoon and early evening as rich moisture moves northwestward, creating unstable conditions. Excessive rainfall in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and parts of Missouri could lead to damaging flash flooding.
Nearly 5 million people are under a tornado watch, with the possibility of hail over two inches in diameter and strong winds exceeding 70 miles per hour. This severe weather comes on the heels of Friday’s tornadoes that caused injuries and destruction in Nebraska and Iowa.
Phil Enke, an elder at Harvest Alliance Church in Minden, Iowa, described the devastation caused by Friday’s storms, which leveled the place of worship. Despite the destruction, Mr. Enke remains resilient, stating, “It’s a hassle and a mess, but you just have to pick up the pieces and move on.”
The Weather Service has received over 100 reports of tornadoes in multiple states in the Great Plains, underscoring the ongoing threat of severe weather in the region. Residents are urged to stay informed and take precautions as the storm system continues to evolve.
