This article provides a rapid, SEO-focused recap of a multiday severe-weather outbreak that swept from Texas to the interior Northeast, producing tornadoes, large hail and damaging winds. It also outlines the evolving forecast and safety guidance for the days ahead.
Scope and intensity of the outbreak
From March 5 onward, a broad weather system generated widespread severe weather across the Plains, Midwest and Southeast. There were more than 125 storm reports that included tornadoes, large hail and damaging winds.
The most consequential events occurred in Michigan, Oklahoma and neighboring states. Multiple strong tornadoes were confirmed and considerable damage was reported.
In Michigan, a strong tornado struck Three Rivers and Union City on Friday afternoon, resulting in at least three fatalities. An EF3 tornado was documented in Union Lake with estimated peak winds of at least 150 mph.
Oklahoma experienced several tornadoes between Oklahoma City and Tulsa Friday evening. Two fatalities occurred in Okmulgee County, and additional deadly tornadoes were reported in northwest Oklahoma the previous night.
The National Weather Service offices in Norman, Oklahoma, and Wichita, Kansas, confirmed at least two EF2 tornadoes and several EF1 tornadoes across the southern Plains and Midwest.
Notable tornadoes, hail and wind signatures
- EF3 tornado in Union Lake, Michigan with winds around 150 mph and significant damage; at least three fatalities reported.
- Two fatalities in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma from tornadoes that touched down in the Friday evening window.
- Multiple suspected tornadoes between Oklahoma City and Tulsa on Friday evening; additional deadly tornadoes reported in northwest Oklahoma.
- Across the southern Plains and Midwest, at least two EF2 tornadoes and several EF1 tornadoes were confirmed by NWS offices in Norman and Wichita.
- Large hail reports included up to 2.5-inch hail in Thayer County, Nebraska, and 2.25-inch “hen-egg” hail in Hall County, Texas; wind gusts exceeded 80 mph in McDonald County, Missouri.
Forecast and risk for the coming days
Meteorologists warn that another round of strong-to-severe storms is likely early to mid-next week as a strong cold front and an upper-level low move into the Plains and central/eastern United States. Forecasters expect the severe threat to shift eastward by Wednesday, stretching from eastern Texas into southwestern New York, with a small Monday risk from east Texas to western Alabama.
Expected risk footprint by day
- Monday: a small severe-weather risk from east Texas to western Alabama.
- Wednesday onward: the threat expands eastward from eastern Texas to southwestern New York as the system moves northeast.
Heavy rainfall and flood concerns
Alongside the thunderstorm potential, heavy, repetitive rainfall through midweek could trigger additional flash flooding across the Southern Plains into the Mississippi Valley. Rainfall totals of 3 inches or more are possible.
Drought conditions remain a concern in parts of the South, complicating water management and agricultural planning in affected regions.
Flood safety and preparedness
- Officials urge residents to have multiple ways to receive NWS watches and warnings.
- Act immediately when warnings are issued.
- Know your safest shelter locations in homes, schools and workplaces.
- Practice a family emergency plan.
- Secure outdoor objects.
- Stay away from windows during tornado warnings.
- Avoid flooded roadways during heavy rain events.
- Maintain battery backups, radios or smartphone alerts.
- Receive timely updates from the National Weather Service.
Here is the source article for this story: Severe Thunderstorms Possible Into This Weekend From Texas To The Midwest, Interior Northeast