A widespread severe weather outbreak is affecting large parts of the US, placing more than 50 million people at risk of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a level 4 out of 5 severe weather risk, warning that “strong to intense tornadoes” are likely across portions of Missouri and Illinois.

High Tornado Risk Across Missouri And Illinois

Forecasters report a significant threat of powerful tornadoes, including EF3 or stronger, especially near St. Louis. Weather conditions are favorable for supercell storms that can produce large tornadoes, hail the size of baseballs, and destructive wind gusts.

Severe thunderstorm watches are in place across central and southern Illinois, including Springfield, and parts of Indiana, including Indianapolis. Experts warn that storms may continue into the night, increasing the risk posed by nighttime tornadoes, which are harder to detect.

Ongoing Storm System Expands Across Key Regions

The storm system is moving across the Central Plains into the mid-Mississippi Valley. Cities such as Kansas City, Chicago, Des Moines, Little Rock, and Nashville remain under alert as severe weather conditions develop.

This outbreak follows several days of storms that have already caused fatalities and damage in affected areas. Officials continue to monitor the situation as storms bring heavy rain, hail, and strong winds.

Storm Threat Continues Into Tuesday Across Southern States

The severe weather threat is expected to continue into Tuesday, extending from northeastern Texas to Kentucky. Cities including Dallas, Memphis, Shreveport, and Huntsville may experience damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes.

While the intensity may decrease compared to earlier days, conditions remain favorable for severe storms across the region.