Weather Authority warning – outbreak of severe storms possible on Wednesday | News

A weather agency warning remains in effect for Wednesday, with a possible significant outbreak of severe storms in the afternoon and evening.

The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of our area at a Level 4 “moderate” risk of severe storms. This is the first moderate risk since March 31, 2023.

There could be a fairly long window of potential storms today. A few isolated storms will form along a warm front during the morning. We will see a potential increase in isolated supercell storms from late morning through the afternoon (approximately 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.). Then, throughout the evening (4:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.), we will likely see storms form into complex or multiple line segments.

All forms of severe storms are possible today. There is still some uncertainty about what types of storms will develop: supercells, a series of storms, or a combination of both. Isolated supercells pose a risk of a tornado. A strong, long-track tornado cannot be ruled out. Very large hail with supercells can also occur. Very large hail is possible, especially in supercells. Hail the size of golf balls or even larger is possible. If storms develop into a line, damaging straight-line wind gusts would be the primary threat. In the most severe storms, some strong gusts could be possible, with speeds of up to 120 km/h.

In addition to these threats, repeated heavy rainfall due to thunderstorms could result in flash flooding, with at least 2 to 3 inches of rain possible in some areas.

Be sure to be weather aware today and plan your activities according to the weather. As always, take time to review your family’s severe weather plan. Have your WPSD radar app updated and make sure severe weather notifications are turned on. Make sure your devices are charged. Know where to seek shelter when warnings are issued.