Millions at risk from dangerous tornadoes, thunderstorms and hailstorms: forecast, affected areas and precautionary measures

A regional outbreak of severe thunderstorms is expected this Friday afternoon and tonight across parts of the mid-Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Valleys.

This outbreak will include intense supercells capable of producing tornadoes, large hail, and wind damage with several strong tornadoes are expected, and there’s a possibility of a long-track, high-end tornado. From the evening into the overnight hours, a bowing line segment is anticipated to form, bringing the potential for additional tornadoes and damaging winds, some possibly exceeding 75 mph.

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms across parts of Kentucky, northern and western Tennessee, southeast Missouri, far southern Illinois, southern Indiana, and far southwest Ohio and surrounding this moderate risk area is a broader engancedm risk area, extending from parts of Oklahoma through Ohio and into West Virginia, also indicating a significant threat of severe weather.

Michigan still alert

A tornado watch was issued late Thursday night for all of Southeast Michigan, effective until 5 AM Friday. Tornado warnings had also been issued for Oakland, Livingston, and Lapeer counties, with some expiring early Friday morning. Severe thunderstorm warnings were in place for Washtenaw, Wayne, and Macomb counties.

Precautionary measures

The safest place during a thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building with electricity and plumbing or a hard-top metal vehicle with the windows rolled up.

If you hear thunder, even a distant rumble, lightning is close enough to strike.Seek shelter immediately and stay there for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

If you find yourself outdoors, avoid elevated areas, open fields, isolated trees, and bodies of water.

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