a vivid picture of the varied conditions across different regions:
- Plains and Mid to Upper Mississippi Valley: Thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding. There’s also a risk of severe weather, including damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes. The Storm Prediction Center has issued Enhanced Risk alerts for several areas. Another system from the Rockies may intensify these conditions over the Southern Plains on Saturday.
- Fire Weather Threat: The Southern High Plains are under an Elevated to Critical Fire Weather threat due to dry and gusty conditions. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning to prevent wildfires.
- Temperature Contrasts: Cooler temperatures are forecasted for regions stretching from the Rockies to the West Coast and from the Mid-Atlantic to the Northeast. Conversely, much above average temperatures are expected from the Southern Plains to the Great Lakes, potentially reaching unseasonably warm levels.
- Westward Unsettled Weather: Across much of the West, unsettled weather, including rain/snow showers and scattered to isolated thunderstorms, is anticipated through Saturday.
Given the potential hazards associated with thunderstorms, flash flooding, severe weather, and fire conditions, it’s important for residents in affected areas to stay updated on weather forecasts and advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.