A powerful storm is forecasted to bring strong wind gusts (indicated by oranges, reds, and purples) to millions on Wednesday afternoon, as reported by CNN Weather. This storm poses a threat to millions in the United States just days after a deadly storm wreaked havoc across the country.
While not an exact replica of the previous storm, this new system is expected to generate severe thunderstorms and powerful winds that could potentially lead to fast-moving fires and a blizzard in the central US. The storm began to take shape in the Rockies on Tuesday afternoon and is set to reach the Plains by nightfall, gaining strength as it moves into the Midwest throughout Wednesday. By late Tuesday morning, the storm’s winds had already caused hazardous dust storms.
The primary concern with this storm is the powerful wind, with gusts exceeding 40 mph likely to affect over 1,300 miles from Texas to Minnesota on Wednesday. These strong gusts have the potential to cause damage to trees and power lines.
Moreover, the ongoing weather pattern in the US since the start of March has increased the risks associated with this upcoming storm. The storm’s development on Tuesday heightened the risk of wildfires spreading, prompting the Storm Prediction Center to issue warnings of a probable “wildfire outbreak.” Parts of New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma are facing a level 3-of-3 fire weather risk due to the dry conditions and wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph.
As the storm progresses, the risk of wildfires persists, particularly in tinder-dry areas of the southern Plains. The storm is also expected to bring blizzard conditions to parts of the Plains and Midwest, starting with snowfall on Tuesday night and continuing into Wednesday.
In addition to the fire and blizzard risks, the storm’s powerful winds have the potential to create dangerous driving conditions and reduce air quality levels significantly. Dust storms have been reported in several states, including New Mexico, Texas, and Kansas, with gusts exceeding 50 mph.
In summary, this potent storm poses multiple threats to millions in the US, including the risk of wildfires, blizzards, and dangerous driving conditions caused by powerful winds and dust storms.
From eastern Nebraska to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, more than half a foot of snow could accumulate by Wednesday night. While a few inches of March snow typically don’t cause major disruptions in the Plains and Midwest, the addition of prolonged gusty winds can complicate matters. When snow and strong winds combine, blizzards can occur, creating whiteout conditions that severely limit visibility. Even areas that receive just an inch of snow may experience whiteouts due to Wednesday’s gusts exceeding 50 mph in parts of Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota, making travel in these conditions treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Thunderstorms are also expected to rumble from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast on Wednesday, with some becoming severe and posing a threat to recovery efforts in areas impacted by the recent deadly storm. While most storms are not expected to be severe, some could produce hail, with the potential for strong wind gusts, hail, and even an isolated tornado in certain areas. Stay updated on the latest news and sign up for CNN newsletters by creating an account at CNN.com.
