Storms Take Aim At The Northern Tier

A cold front will generate scattered storms across the Northeast today, with clusters of storms also forming in the north-central U.S.

A strong upper-level disturbance and an associated cold front will move across the Northeast today. There is very warm and humid air ahead of the front, while cooler and drier air attempts to funnel in behind it. This collision of air masses will act as the catalyst for thunderstorm development today. Combine that with strong winds throughout the atmosphere and daytime heating, strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible throughout the Northeast through later this evening.

The Storm Prediction Center has put a Slight Risk over most of the Northeast from northeastern Pennsylvania and eastern New York to Maine, with lower severe chances in eastern Massachusetts. The main threat with these storms will be strong winds, with wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph or more. Some hail will also be possible.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for much of the Northeast. This includes southeastern Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey and southern New York into Connecticut, Rhode Island, most of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.

Further west, heat and humidity will build across the northern Plains and Upper Midwest, where pockets of strong to severe storms could develop late this afternoon through this evening. These storms could also produce gusty winds and hail, and a tornado or two is also possible within the Slight Risk that covers much of North Dakota.

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

More isolated severe storms could continue to develop in the north-central U.S. on Friday and Saturday as the eastern U.S. turns quieter behind the cold front.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"