Severe thunderstorms, high winds, large hail, and heavy rain are expected to sweep across the eastern US on Monday, posing a potential threat to millions of people. The US Storm Prediction Center has issued warnings for southern Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland, where the worst of the storms are expected to develop. Additionally, tornadoes could also be a possibility in some areas. Airlines and ground traffic may experience delays and cancellations as a result of the severe weather.
According to Brian Hurley, a senior branch forecaster at the US Weather Prediction Center, this storm system is unusually strong for this time of year. The National Weather Service has issued tornado and severe thunderstorm watches for a large portion of the Eastern US, stretching from Pennsylvania to South Carolina. Damaging winds up to 75 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter are anticipated in some regions. As the storms move east, they may consolidate into a squall line, further increasing their intensity.
The storms are expected to gradually diminish as the evening progresses, with the Washington D.C. area likely to experience the highest risks until around 9 p.m. local time. Watches issued for New Jersey will remain in effect until 11 p.m.
Approximately 49.4 million people across the eastern US are at an enhanced risk of dangerous storms and flooding, while an additional 38 million face a slight risk. The primary concern is high winds, as mentioned by Hurley.
The West Virginia Emergency Management Division has urged residents to take precautions and prepare for the storms. They have advised individuals to charge their cell phones and have a way of receiving weather alerts. It is important for everyone in the affected regions to stay updated on the latest weather information and to take necessary safety measures.
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