Severe storms ravaged the country from Montana to Florida on Thursday, with winds gusting to 91 mph in South Dakota and hail as large as golf balls in Montana.
In Melbourne, Florida, a tornado ripped through a neighborhood, damaging homes.
“Fortunately no one was injured,” Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey wrote Thursday night. “Although some of the area is without power [Florida Power & Light] is en route and will be working through the evening replacing power poles and downed lines.”
A neighborhood off of Sarno in Melbourne in Florida is seen on June 27, 2024.
Malcolm Denemark/Florida Today via USA Today
On Friday, the severe weather is forecast to impact Colorado to Iowa, bringing damaging winds and large hail.
The highest tornado threat will be in the Kansas City area.
Severe weather threat Friday.
ABC News Illustration
The severe weather will move east on Saturday, ripping through Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Buffalo, New York. Damaging winds, hail and isolated tornadoes are possible.
By Sunday, the severe weather will hit the Interstate 95 corridor, including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York City and Boston. Damaging winds will be the biggest threat.
Severe weather threat Sat. and Sun.
ABC News Illustration
As we head into the weekend, meteorologists are closely monitoring a severe weather system that is expected to move eastward, bringing the potential for damaging storms and hazardous conditions across a large portion of the country. This latest forecast for severe weather has many residents on edge as they prepare for the possibility of strong winds, heavy rain, and even tornadoes.
The storm system is currently developing in the central United States and is expected to track eastward over the next few days. The areas most at risk for severe weather include parts of the Midwest, Southeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions. Cities such as Chicago, Atlanta, and Washington D.C. are all in the path of this potentially dangerous weather system.
Meteorologists are warning residents in these areas to stay informed and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Strong thunderstorms are expected to develop ahead of the main system, bringing the threat of damaging winds and large hail. In addition, there is a risk for isolated tornadoes, especially in areas with the greatest instability and wind shear.
Heavy rainfall is also a concern with this system, as it has the potential to produce flash flooding in some areas. Residents living in low-lying or flood-prone areas should be especially vigilant and have a plan in place in case they need to evacuate quickly.
In order to stay safe during severe weather events, it is important to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and warnings. This can include a weather radio, smartphone apps, or local news broadcasts. It is also a good idea to have an emergency kit prepared with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and a first aid kit.
As always, it is important to follow the guidance of local officials and meteorologists during severe weather events. Stay indoors during storms, away from windows and doors, and seek shelter in a sturdy building if a tornado warning is issued.
While the forecast for severe weather moving east this weekend is concerning, being prepared and staying informed can help mitigate the risks associated with these types of events. By taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones, you can weather the storm safely and emerge unscathed.
