Explosive thunderstorm development occurred last night over parts of the central Plains. This brought 15 reports of possible tornadoes, along with numerous reports of large hail, in some cases to the size of soft balls.
As much as 24 inches of snow fell in parts of western South Dakota, with wind gusts as high as 64 mph in the Rapid City area. This brought blizzard conditions to parts of western South Dakota and Wyoming.
A strong storm system over the northern Plains was responsible for all of this active weather late yesterday and overnight, and will continue the threat for severe thunderstorms and blizzard conditions today.
Severe thunderstorms will be ongoing this morning over parts of the eastern Plains, into the Midwest and Mississippi Valley, with additional thunderstorm development likely over the Mississippi Valley and Midwest later this afternoon and evening.
Areas including Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis, St. Louis, Memphis, Little Rock, Shreveport, Jackson, and Baton Rouge will be at risk for severe thunderstorms. Tornadoes, very large hail, and damaging winds will all be possible, along with localized flash flooding.
The risk for severe thunderstorms will shift into the Southeastern States on Saturday, potentially impacting areas like Knoxville, Atlanta, Birmingham, and Mobile.
Meanwhile, strong gusty winds and heavy snow will continue over the eastern Dakotas, into parts of Wyoming.
Wind gusts of 45 to 65 mph will be possible, bringing blizzard conditions to parts of the area. Additional accumulations today will range from 4 to 8 inches, especially in the higher elevations.
Strong gusty winds will also impact parts if the Front Range of the Rockies, into the western Plains today, behind the storm system. Wind gusts of 40 to 60 mph will be possible from eastern Colorado, through western Kansas.