A ridge of high pressure moving eastward from the Four Corners Region to the Central Plains is ushering in milder temperatures. Highs will reach the 40s, 50s, and lower 60s Thursday afternoon. However, the High Plains will remain colder due to a deeper snowpack.

Dangerous storms have impacted parts of the southern U.S. this week, with millions across the region bracing for more severe weather through the weekend.

Millions of residents across the southern U.S. face life-threatening weather this weekend as an outbreak of tornadoes is forecast for Saturday.

JACKSON, Miss. – Just days after tornadoes ravaged parts of the South, the region is again under threat.

On Saturday, a tornado moved across areas west and northwest of Houston. Reports included sightings near Katy, Texas, where a funnel hovered above the ground, and Cypress, Texas, where additional activity was noted. A tornado was also reported Saturday morning in Oretta, Louisiana.

Forecasters warn residents from Texas to the Carolinas and Florida to remain alert. Storms began firing up Saturday morning from Texas to Mississippi. Tornado and Severe Thunderstorm Warnings have been issued across the region.

Radar images show warnings as follows:

• Severe Thunderstorm Warnings: Yellow
• Tornado Warnings: Red
• Confirmed Tornado Warnings: Purple
• Flash Flood Warnings: Green
• Flash Flood Emergencies: Pink

Watches for at least five states have been issued, indicating favorable conditions for severe weather. Residents should prepare to act if warnings are issued.

A Level 4 severe weather zone includes Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. A Level 3 zone extends from Texas to Florida.

Key threats include large hail, damaging winds, and strong tornadoes (EF-2 or greater). Long-track tornadoes, potentially EF-3 or stronger, are possible.

“These supercells developing across East Texas pose a significant risk,” said TNW Weather General Manager Todd Nardone. “Long-track, EF-3 or greater tornadoes could emerge.”

People living in these zones should review their tornado safety plans and ensure they have a reliable way to receive weather alerts. TNW Weather recommends using TNWWeather.com for updates and alerts.

By Sunday, the storms will shift eastward, affecting areas from Virginia to Florida. Tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail remain concerns.

For continuous updates and reliable radar tracking, visit TNWWeather.com. Follow TNW Weather on X, Instagram, and Threads for live updates.

This article is a collaborative effort of human and artificial intelligence to ensure accuracy and quality. TNW News LLC and TNWWeather.com reserve all rights.

All content is © TNW News LLC, December 28, 2024.

For a visual update on the severe weather outbreak expected across the South, you