Severe Weather Hits St. Louis: Tornadoes and Large Hail Forecasted

Source: KSDK

Weather Alerts in Effect

St. Louis is bracing for severe weather conditions as the National Weather Service has issued multiple tornado warnings and watches covering the region. The storms, expected to roll in as early as Friday afternoon, are predicted to bring damaging winds, possible tornadoes, and significant hail to the area.

According to the latest reports, a tornado watch is currently in effect for St. Louis along with surrounding regions. Weather Impact Alerts have been issued due to the anticipated severe weather conditions, which are expected to peak from 1 PM to 7 PM on Friday.

Severe Storms Predicted and Recent Developments

The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the threat of severe weather to a moderate risk category, rating it at four out of five. As severe storms moved through the area, confirmed instances of softball-sized hail were reported in St. Charles County around 2:20 PM. The 5 On Your Side Weather Impact Team indicates that there is a high likelihood of brief tornadoes forming alongside these severe storms throughout the afternoon.

The forecast for St. Louis calls for hail, which can lead to costly property damage, along with the possibility of strong winds. Residents should remain vigilant and stay updated on weather changes, especially if they’re located in the southeastern parts of the St. Louis area where the risk appears to be greatest.

What to Expect During the Storm

With the storm predictions in mind, residents can expect the following impacts:

• Severe Thunderstorms: The storms could lead to intense rain and strong winds.
• Tornado Risk: Brief tornadoes are possible, particularly in the southeastern region.
• Large Hail: The most widespread threat appears to stem from large hail, posing risks to vehicles and property.
• Wind Damage: Strong winds could lead to downed trees and power lines.

The strongest impacts are expected later in the afternoon and into the evening hours, so preparedness is crucial. Residents are advised to keep safety kits ready and monitor local news for live updates.

Live Radar and Continued Monitoring

For those wanting to track the storm as it develops, the 5 On Your Side live interactive radar is available. The radar provides real-time updates and helps residents see the storms’ movement across the region.

In addition to monitoring the storm, St. Louis residents should also prepare for potential disruption due to the severe weather forecast. As mentioned, hail can cause significant damage, surpassing that of strong winds and tornadoes in certain segments depending on the intensity and duration of the storm.

Stay informed and prioritize safety during these weather events, and consider signing up for alerts from reputable sources such as KSDK or the National Weather Service.

Tags:

severe weather, tornado warnings, St. Louis storms, severe hail, weather radar, storm predictions, weather alerts, St. Louis news, KSDK, tornado watch