Severe Thunderstorms Sweep Across Western U.S., Prompting Warnings and Alerts

In recent hours, severe thunderstorms have been wreaking havoc across several states in the western United States, prompting warnings and alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS). These storms have been characterized by strong winds, hail, and the potential for damage to property and infrastructure.

In Arizona, a Special Weather Statement issued by the NWS Phoenix highlighted a strong thunderstorm moving northeast, with the potential for wind gusts up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail. Similarly, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Flagstaff, Arizona, warned of 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail, with potential damage to vehicles, roofs, siding, and trees.

Moving to California, a Special Weather Statement from the NWS San Diego tracked a strong thunderstorm over Highland, with wind gusts up to 50 mph and half-inch hail. The impacted areas included several cities and highways, with the potential for minor hail damage to vegetation.

Further east, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch was issued by the NWS Springfield, Missouri, covering multiple counties in central, east central, south central, and southwest Missouri. The watch included cities like Lebanon, Rolla, and Waynesville, with the potential for severe weather conditions until 10 PM CDT.

In Imperial County, California, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued for areas including Calexico, Holtville, and Heber, with the potential for 60 mph wind gusts and nickel-sized hail. The warning advised residents to expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

Additionally, Severe Thunderstorm Warnings were issued in Missouri by the NWS Kansas City/Pleasant Hill and NWS St. Louis, with hazards including 60 mph wind gusts and quarter-sized hail. Locations impacted by these warnings included Moberly, Fayette, and Harrisburg.

The prevalence of these severe thunderstorms underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared for extreme weather events. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions to ensure their safety and protect their property from potential damage.

#SevereWeather #Thunderstorms #NWSWarnings #SafetyFirst #StayInformed
References:
– NWS Phoenix AZ: [Link]
– NWS Flagstaff AZ: [Link]
– NWS San Diego CA: [Link]
– NWS Springfield MO: [Link]
– NWS Kansas City/Pleasant Hill MO: [Link]
– NWS St. Louis MO: [Link]

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