A powerful and dangerous severe weather outbreak is sweeping across the central United States, bringing numerous tornado warnings Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports a volatile atmospheric setup, driven by a strong upper-level disturbance meeting a moist airmass from the Gulf of Mexico. This mix is creating ideal conditions for supercell thunderstorms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.

Initial reports centered on Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa, with intense storms in eastern Oklahoma and southern Kansas resulting in multiple confirmed tornadoes. Communities like Wichita, Kansas, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, faced urgent tornado warnings, with residents urged to seek shelter in basements, safe rooms, or interior rooms away from windows.

The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) initially issued a Level 3 “Enhanced” risk for severe thunderstorms from Texas to Iowa, upgrading parts to a Level 4 “Moderate” risk as the threat increased. The storms brought significant hail, exceeding softball size, and wind gusts of up to 80 mph, causing widespread power outages and property damage.

As the system moves eastward, Arkansas, Missouri, and Illinois now face heightened threats on Wednesday. Officials stress having multiple ways to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio and emergency alert systems. The Red Cross has mobilized resources to support affected areas, and local agencies are coordinating shelter options.

Travel is highly discouraged due to hazardous roadways from debris and downed power lines. The NWS continues to issue real-time updates, emphasizing the need for residents to remain vigilant as the severe weather system pushes northeast. The risk of overnight and early morning tornadoes adds concern, as many may be asleep and less aware of the danger.