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Tornado Outbreak Looms: La Niña Fuels Severe Storms
4 Mar
Summary
- Severe thunderstorms with potential tornadoes are expected from Wednesday to next week.
- La Niña weather pattern is causing drought in the South and heavy rains elsewhere.
- Flash flooding is a concern in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains and valleys.
A significant weather pattern is set to impact the central United States, bringing a siege of severe thunderstorms from Wednesday through mid-next week. The La Niña phenomenon is contributing to drought in the South, while simultaneously driving heavy rainfall and the potential for flash flooding across the Mississippi and Ohio Valleys.
From Wednesday, severe thunderstorms carrying large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes are possible in areas including northern Texas, Arkansas, and Missouri. This threat is expected to escalate by Friday, with NOAA forecasting a potential outbreak of strong supercell thunderstorms capable of producing EF2 or stronger tornadoes from northern Texas into western Missouri.
Beyond Friday, severe storms may continue into the weekend and early next week. Heavy rainfall, potentially exceeding three inches in some areas, is forecast for the Southern Plains, Mississippi, and Ohio Valleys, increasing the risk of flash flooding, especially in mountainous regions. Preparedness is crucial, with advisories to have multiple warning systems and know shelter locations.
