Severe Weather Expected in Eastern U.S., Forecasters Say
Forecasters with the Storm Prediction Center are warning residents in the eastern United States to prepare for severe weather on Monday. The Washington-Baltimore area has been assigned a level four on the five-level scale used to indicate the probability of severe weather. This is the highest level seen since widespread wind damage was reported across the Mid-Atlantic in June 2013.
Andrew Snyder, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Washington, stated, “The atmosphere is forecast to be in a volatile state, and severe thunderstorms will likely affect much of the area. There is increased confidence for numerous damaging wind gusts along with the potential for locally destructive winds over 75 m.p.h.”
An area stretching from northeastern Tennessee to southern Pennsylvania could be affected by widespread severe storms, some of which may be long-lived and intense. These types of storms typically occur once a year, if that.
The Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for portions of Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington. This watch will be in effect until 9 p.m. The service has also stated that “a few tornadoes” are likely in these areas, along with isolated hail up to the size of Ping-Pong balls and wind gusts of up to 75 miles per hour.
The Storm Prediction Center has identified portions of eastern Kentucky and West Virginia as having the “best chance for a tornado.”
The risk of severe storms extends beyond the Mid-Atlantic, with more than 40 million people living within an area that forecasters believe has a moderate probability of experiencing these severe storms. Major cities like Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Charlotte, N.C. are included in this area.
While the risk is lower in New York City and other parts of the Northeast, forecasters have warned of excessive rain that could lead to flash flooding.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
How can staying informed and being proactive in preparing for severe weather help enhance safety and reduce potential damage
D an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms, with the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and even isolated tornadoes.
The forecasters at the Storm Prediction Center are closely monitoring weather patterns and have issued warnings for severe weather in the eastern region of the United States. They are urging residents to take necessary precautions and prepare for potentially dangerous conditions on Monday.
Specifically, the Washington-Baltimore area has been categorized as an enhanced risk zone for severe thunderstorms. This means that residents should be particularly vigilant and ready for possible damaging winds, large hail, and even isolated tornadoes.
Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather conditions and keep a close eye on any updates from local authorities. It is crucial to have a plan in place for seeking shelter if severe weather strikes. Taking necessary precautions, such as securing loose objects, staying indoors, and avoiding unnecessary travel, can help minimize the risks associated with severe storms.
Forecasters emphasize the importance of taking these warnings seriously and being proactive in preparing for severe weather. While it is impossible to completely predict the exact impact of the upcoming storm, being prepared and staying informed can significantly enhance safety and reduce potential damage.
The Storm Prediction Center will continue monitoring the situation and providing updates as the severe weather event approaches.
Stay safe everyone and take necessary precautions! Thunderstorms can be dangerous, so it’s important to be prepared.