The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted that Oklahoma and other neighboring states could experience potentially intense and historic tornadoes on Monday.
The highest severe weather risk alert possible was issued by NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, on Monday afternoon and evening. This alert was specifically for multiple intense, long-track tornadoes.
Tornadoes have the potential to persist beyond daylight hours and extend into the night. It is crucial to be aware that nighttime tornadoes pose a significant threat.
The National Weather Service has issued its first “high risk” designation for severe storms this year, marking an important milestone for Oklahoma as well. This is the first time since 2019 that the state has been under such a designation.
Tornado Alley is bracing for severe storms with the possibility of significant damage. The states from Nebraska to Texas, particularly Kansas and Oklahoma, are expected to bear the brunt of these powerful weather systems.
Severe weather is anticipated as storms develop and potentially organize into a line of supercells moving eastward. This could lead to the occurrence of various types of severe weather.
Multiple powerful tornadoes, accompanied by large hail the size of softballs, could potentially occur. These severe thunderstorms have the potential to bring winds reaching speeds of up to 80 mph.
Storms are expected to develop from Kearney, Nebraska to Hays, Kansas, starting at 3 p.m. ET.
Be prepared for storms to rapidly increase in size once they are ignited, catching people off guard. It is crucial for everyone, especially those in the initial areas, to stay vigilant and alert.
Tornado watches are typically issued prior to the development of any storms. It is essential for individuals to be prepared for any situation that may arise once these watches are issued.
A tornado watch has been issued for certain areas in south-central Kansas (including Wichita), most parts of Oklahoma (including OKC), and extending into the northern region of Texas (including Wichita Falls) until 12 p.m. ET. This watch is classified as a “particularly dangerous situation.”
Storms are rapidly forming and expanding from Nebraska to central Oklahoma by 6 p.m. ET. There is a possibility of strong and long-track tornadoes, along with the potential for large hail up to the size of a softball.
By 8 p.m. ET, the storms will continue to move eastward, reaching the Beatrice, Nebraska area and Wichita, Kansas.
Storms are expected to develop east of Oklahoma City around 12 ET, an area that was recently hit by tornadoes at the end of April. A line of storms is then forecasted to form from Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Joplin, Missouri, and Kansas City, Missouri, with the potential for various types of severe weather.
By sunrise, the line that has been progressing eastward overnight gradually dissipates as it reaches Paducah, Kentucky.
Expect an increase in storm activity on Tuesday and Wednesday with the arrival of new energy.