Severe storms and tornadoes swept across the Midwest on Friday, placing approximately 38 million people under a weather alert. Confirmed tornadoes touched down in parts of Illinois and Minnesota, where high winds toppled trees and downed power lines, making some roads completely impassable. To prepare for the incoming danger, the Governor of Missouri signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency for his state.
The region is currently experiencing “roller-coaster” weather, characterized by dramatic temperature swings. Many states saw summer-like heat in the middle of spring, with temperatures climbing into the 80s and even 90s. These unseasonably warm conditions helped fuel the intense thunderstorms. However, a cold front is expected to follow, bringing much cooler temperatures back to the central and eastern United States.
In addition to the wind, heavy rainfall has triggered significant flooding concerns through the weekend. Some areas, including Milwaukee, received a month’s worth of rain in only two hours, which trapped drivers on submerged highways. Local officials warn that because the ground is already saturated, any additional rain could cause even more flooding, making it difficult for communities to begin their cleanup efforts.