Dangerous Storms Target the Plains

Summer is in full swing, and a large swath of the Plains will be at risk for severe weather today. 

A low pressure system will be settled over the northern Plains today, while a nearly stationary front is draped from the north-central Plains into the Rocky Mountains. This low pressure and stationary front separates hot, humid air to the south and east from colder, drier air filtering from the north and west. The collision of air masses will be where thunderstorms bubble up throughout the evening.

The government’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Slight Risk for severe weather from the north-central U.S. into the central and southern High Plains. This includes Grand Forks and Bismarck, N.D., Duluth, Minn., Aberdeen and Sioux Falls, S.D., Valentine and Norfolk, Neb., and Colby and Garden City, Kan. The greatest concerns within thunderstorms will be damaging wind gusts exceeding 50 to 60 mph and large to very large hail. However, a few tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

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!"