AccuWeather meteorologists are predicting a significant change in the weather pattern over the next week. After lackluster conditions in recent days, a shift is expected to bring several days with the potential for severe weather. The early part of the week may bring some storm risks to the Ohio Valley, but a more widespread threat is anticipated later in the week across the Plains and Central states as conditions intensify.
Meteorologist Alex Duffus noted that the upcoming pattern nationwide will be more active than what has been seen recently. The convergence of warm, humid air from the Gulf with cooler air and energy from the western states is likely to lead to multiple chances for severe thunderstorms leading up to and including the Easter holiday.
On Monday, areas from Cleveland, Ohio, to Louisville, Kentucky, will experience warmer temperatures but also face the risk of powerful storms as the day progresses. Blustery winds, possible hail, and isolated spin-ups are possible in regions stretching from southeastern Ohio to parts of Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
By midweek, as a new storm system moves into the Plains, showers and thunderstorms may develop, potentially bringing locally strong storms. While a widespread severe risk is not expected, small hail and gusty winds could occur in the most intense storms.
As the storm system organizes on Thursday, the risk of severe thunderstorms will increase in the Plains and Midwest, with wind gusts up to 70-80 mph and hail becoming hazards. Friday could see storm impacts extending from southwest Texas to northeast Ohio, with isolated tornadoes, hail, and gusty winds possible.
Looking ahead to the Easter weekend, a more dynamic setup could bring a risk of severe thunderstorms on Saturday and Sunday. Locations across the South Central states may experience large hail and strong to severe storms, potentially affecting outdoor Easter activities like picnics and egg hunts. Cities such as Amarillo, Oklahoma City, Dallas suburbs, and Little Rock could be impacted by these storms.
“A strong storm moving out of the Rocky Mountains into the central Plains over the Easter weekend will bring the threat of severe thunderstorms to Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas,” said Duffus from AccuWeather.com. The storm will be fueled by moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, contributing to unstable conditions and the potential for severe weather.
The weekend will see the risk of isolated tornadoes in the central and southern Plains. Planning outdoor activities for the holiday weekend? Stay informed about the weather and consider moving events indoors or rescheduling if necessary. Check AccuWeather.com for the latest updates as the weekend approaches.
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