Widespread, Possibly Significant, Severe Weather Threat for Saturday...

Computer forecast models are coming into better agreement in suggesting that a potentially significant severe weather outbreak is likely this Saturday across portions of the central and northern Plains and the Midwest.  

The above image is the latest severe weather outlook for Saturday afternoon and evening from the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) in Norman, OK.  Severe weather is forecast within the purple shaded area on the image, and this is likely where the highest and/or more widespread threat will be.  A threat for scattered severe storms will also extend back toward the Southwest into portions of western and central Oklahoma and northwest Texas as well.

A very strong upper-level weather disturbance will combine with a strengthening area of low pressure and a cold front at the surface to produce the severe weather threat across this region.

Damaging thunderstorm winds and tornadoes are a strong possibility in association with this activity, particularly across the purple shaded area on the above image.  Large hail is also possible.

If you live across this region, please remain alert and listen for updated forecasts and other information throughout the week.  We'll be able to pinpoint the threat to a greater extent each day as the week progresses.

This would also be a good time to dust off your severe weather safety kit, and review safety and preparedness information if you live in this region.

Heads-up also over the Western high plains of Kansas as well as the Oklahoma and Texas panhandles:  scattered severe storms are possible in your region ahead of this system on Friday afternoon and evening.  More on that as the week progresses as well...

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