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Millions face severe storm threats this week across the U.S. heartland

Mar 5, 2026, 4:42 PM50
(Update: Mar 6, 2026, 10:36 PM)
U.S. forecasting agency of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Millions face severe storm threats this week across the U.S. heartland

  • The National Weather Service predicts a multi-day stretch of severe weather across the southern and central U.S.
  • Over 6 million Americans are at risk for severe thunderstorms and tornadoes starting Friday.
  • Residents in tornado-prone areas must prepare for hazardous weather and potential safety threats.
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Beginning this week, the United States is bracing for a multi-day stretch of severe weather, specifically across the southern and central regions of the country. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that comprehensive storm hazards, including damaging winds, hail, and potential tornadoes, will persist in the coming days, peaking primarily on Friday. This has significant implications for millions at risk, particularly in areas from Texas to Iowa. The initial storms are anticipated to affect the Texas Panhandle, western Oklahoma, and parts of Kansas, evolving into more widespread severe weather as the week progresses. On Friday, forecasters expect a heightened threat encompassing substantial portions of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, extending into neighboring states. The severity of these thunderstorms may lead to widespread hazards, with a particularly dangerous outlook due to intense wind patterns. As the front moves northward, the storm systems are poised to produce hazardous weather conditions throughout Friday evening and into the night, emphasizing the critical need for preparedness as communities enter the peak of tornado season. Meteorologists have indicated that factors contributing to this severe weather include a clash between warm, moist air flowing north from the Gulf Coast and cooler air arriving from Canada. This combination has led to extreme temperature fluctuations, with reports of temperatures 20-30 degrees above average expected in the coming days. By Saturday, significantly warm temperatures could extend into the Mid-Atlantic and parts of the Ohio Valley, ushering in the potential for daily record highs in places like Louisville and Atlanta. As spring arrives, emergency management officials are underscoring the importance of readiness for residents in tornado-prone areas. With more than 6 million Americans currently at the highest risk on Friday, safety measures are critical for those in metropolitan areas like Kansas City and Tulsa. Experts are utilizing social media to promote awareness and guide citizens on precautions to take as the storm systems develop. This week's severe weather serves as a stark reminder of the importance of staying informed and prepared amid the unpredictable nature of America's storm season.

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