Dangerous Storms Target Midwest, Deep South

The multi-day severe weather outbreak will continue into the Mississippi, Ohio and Tennessee valleys tonight. Once again, all modes of severe weather will be on the table.

The same system that brought a regional tornado outbreak to the central Plains on Sunday and Monday will slowly advance eastward tonight.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued an Enhanced Risk (level 3 and out of 5 on the severe weather index) across eastern Tennessee, northwestern Georgia and northern Alabama. Here, strong tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds are all likely to occur tonight for cities such as Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tenn., and Huntsville, Ala. 

Surrounding this main area, a Slight Risk (level 2 and out of 5 on the severe weather index) for severe weather is also in place from northeastern Louisiana to as far east as western North Carolina and southwestern Virginia. A couple of cities included are Atlanta and Jackson, Miss.

A Tornado Watch is in place from northern Mississippi and northern Alabama into eastern Tennessee, eastern Kentucky and far northwestern Georgia. Another Tornado Watch has been posted for central Illinois and west-central Indiana. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for parts of northern Louisiana.

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"