A powerful storm is set to sweep across the United States, bringing a dangerous mix of extreme weather to California, Texas, Missouri, and several other states. The massive system is expected to unleash tornadoes in the South, blizzards in the North, wildfires in the Plains, and major travel disruptions as it moves eastward. California is already experiencing heavy rain, strong winds, and mountain snow, while severe thunderstorms and potentially strong tornadoes are forecasted for the Mississippi Valley, Lower Ohio Valley, and Tennessee Valley. Meanwhile, dry and windy conditions in Texas and the central Plains are increasing the risk of fast-spreading wildfires. With significant air and road travel disruptions expected, residents in affected areas are urged to prepare for dangerous conditions in the coming days.
California Slammed by Heavy Rain, Snow, and High Winds
On Thursday, the storm battered California with heavy rain, powerful winds, and mountain snow. The Sierra Nevada experienced treacherous conditions, with wind gusts of 40 to 70 mph making travel nearly impossible. Flash flooding was reported in Southern California, and the National Weather Service confirmed it was investigating reports of an overnight tornado in Pico Rivera.
Severe Weather Threat for Texas, Missouri, and the Mississippi Valley
As the storm moves east, it will trigger a major severe weather outbreak across parts of the Mississippi Valley, Lower Ohio Valley, and Tennessee Valley by Friday and Saturday. The Storm Prediction Center warns of large hail, damaging wind gusts, and swaths of intense tornadoes, some striking at night. Severe thunderstorms will continue past midnight, making the situation even more dangerous.
Cities at highest risk on Friday include St. Louis, Memphis, and Nashville, while New Orleans and Birmingham will be in the danger zone on Saturday.
AccuWeather meteorologists predict as many as two dozen tornadoes and hundreds of damaging wind reports throughout the weekend. Experts urge residents to prepare now, as strong tornadoes after dark are especially dangerous.
Dan DePodwin, AccuWeather’s senior director of forecasting operations, advised people to make sure their storm shelters or safe rooms are stocked with emergency supplies in case a tornado warning is issued.
Wildfire Danger Grows Across the Plains
While some states prepare for tornadoes and floods, Texas, Oklahoma, and the Dakotas are facing critical wildfire conditions. The National Weather Service issued Red Flag Warnings for multiple states, warning that any fires that develop will spread rapidly and be difficult or impossible to control. Strong winds, warm temperatures, and dry conditions increase the risk of fast-moving wildfires.
Blizzard Conditions to Hit the Northern Plains
By late Friday through Saturday, heavy snow and blizzard conditions will impact northern Nebraska, the Dakotas, and Minnesota. Forecasters expect dangerous travel conditions, with possible road closures and flight disruptions.
Major Travel Disruptions Expected Nationwide
This massive storm system will cause significant travel disruptions across multiple states. Airports, highways, and major interstates are likely to see delays and closures due to blizzards in the north, severe storms and tornadoes in the central US, and wildfires in the south and Plains.
A powerful storm is set to impact California, Texas, Missouri, and other states with tornadoes, blizzards, wildfires, and major travel disruptions as it moves eastward. Severe storms, heavy snow, and fire risks will create hazardous conditions across large portions of the US.
Prepare Now as Storm Moves Across the US
Officials urge residents in affected areas to stay informed, have emergency plans ready, and prepare for power outages and road closures. This widespread and dangerous storm will continue moving eastward through the weekend, bringing extreme weather conditions from coast to coast.
The post California, Texas, Missouri, and More Bracing for New Mega Storm Across US With Tornadoes, Blizzards, Wildfires, and Major Travel Disruptions appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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