Catastrophic weather destined to hit numerous regions in the United States, forecasting a wave of intense storms.
Severe Weather Hits Multiple Regions Across the U.S.
A series of severe thunderstorms is sweeping across the United States, particularly affecting the Midwest and parts of the eastern states. The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has advised commuters to have emergency supplies in their vehicles this week, as several cities and regions are at risk.
Midwest under Threat
North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and parts of Iowa and Michigan are experiencing the brunt of the storms. North Dakota is expecting widespread damaging straight-line winds over 75 mph, large hail, and possible tornadoes, especially in the western and central parts of the state. Minnesota and northern Wisconsin are experiencing scattered severe thunderstorms with potential for tornadoes and damaging winds.
Chicago and surrounding Illinois counties are also under threat, with reports of severe thunderstorms, damaging winds, large hail, and numerous downed trees and power lines. Eastern Dakotas and Nebraska are expecting severe weather with wind damage and hail. Additional Midwest areas such as Iowa, Michigan, and surrounding states may experience late summer cold blasts and severe weather into fall.
Eastern U.S. at Risk
Eastern parts of the U.S. may see increased rainfall and storm activity linked to tropical disturbances as August advances. Cities such as Philadelphia, Dallas, and Virginia Beach are projected to have a slight risk of extreme weather conditions.
Central Texas Braces for Severe Thunderstorms
Cities in central Texas, including Waco and Gatesville, are expected to see enhanced weather risk this week, with the potential for very large hail of 3-4 inches in diameter. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms capable of very large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes in central Texas this afternoon/evening.
Rain for the Mid-Atlantic
The Mid-Atlantic regions, which have been very dry this spring, are expected to benefit from the rains associated with the severe thunderstorms.
Stay Prepared
In these uncertain weather conditions, it's essential to stay informed and prepared. FEMA suggests having emergency supplies in vehicles to ensure safety in case of an emergency. For more information on preparing for emergencies, visit Earther's guides on decarbonizing your home, divesting from fossil fuels, packing a disaster go bag, overcoming climate dread, and more.
[1] NWS Storm Prediction Center [2] NBC News [3] Climate Central [4] AccuWeather [5] The Weather Channel
- Gizmodo has reported on the severe thunderstorms affecting multiple regions across the U.S., with the Midwest, particularly North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and Michigan, under the most significant threat.
- In the face of the increasing risk of climate change, scientists, including those in the field of earth-science and environmental-science, are emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing this issue to mitigate its impact on future weather patterns.
- Technological advancements are playing a crucial role in monitoring and predicting severe weather events like the current thunderstorms, with the National Weather Service (NWS) providing real-time weather updates and warnings.
- As the weather becomes more unpredictable, staying prepared is vital for our safety. This includes following weather advisories, keeping emergency supplies handy, and being mindful of our carbon footprint to help mitigate climate-change effects in the long run.
