April 5, 2023
Severe thunderstorm winds, large hail and a few tornadoes are expected today from the Great Lakes to parts of east Texas and Louisiana.
The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center stated on Wednesday, as severe storms continue to impact the South and Midwest United States.
What To Know: As severe storms continue to impact the South and Midwest, the Storm Prediction Center said as many as 40 million people in cities including Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis and Memphis, Tennessee were at risk from the severe weather on Wednesday. One tornado caused by the storms killed at least five people early Wednesday morning in Bollinger County, Missouri; Sgt. Clark Parrott, public information officer at the Missouri State Highway Patrol said, "The damage is pretty widespread. It's just heartbreaking to see it."
Big Picture: Unlike hurricanes that we anticipate at a certain time of year (June – November), tornadoes can happen any time; however, the busiest season tends to be spring through early summer. At least 32 people died this past weekend as a storm system spawned potentially dozens of tornadoes across the South and Midwest. For tips from the National Weather service on tornado safety, click HERE.
National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center
Predawn Missouri tornado kills at least 5, sows destruction (The Associated Press)
Severe storms including hail, tornadoes, hit Midwest, South (The Associated Press)
Chicago forecast: Wind advisory in effect until 4 p.m. with gusts up to 70 mph possible (Chicago Tribune)
by Jenna Lee,
