Severe Storm Threat Persists Across Central U.S.
Severe Storm Threat Persists Across Central U.S.
US · Published May 20, 2026
Severe weather conditions are expected to persist across parts of the central United States on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, following a stormy Monday that saw 19 tornadoes reported in northeast Kansas, southeast Nebraska, and the Iowa-Missouri border.
According to The Washington Post, the Storm Prediction Center has issued a slight risk (Level 2 out of 5) for severe storms stretching from eastern Michigan and western New York to the Big Bend of Texas.
Cities within this risk zone include Rochester, Buffalo, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, Memphis, Little Rock, Dallas, and San Antonio.

Why It's Important?

The primary risks associated with these storms include damaging wind gusts and isolated large hail, particularly in West Texas. The tornado threat remains low due to the presence of a squall line, which inhibits the formation of rotating supercells. Areas south of Interstate 20, including Midland and San Angelo, may experience the most significant hail impacts. Cooler and drier air is expected to follow the storms, reducing the likelihood of additional severe weather in the coming days. Monday's storms, which were initially forecasted to produce stronger tornadoes and larger hail, resulted in mostly weak tornadoes due to unfavorable atmospheric conditions.

Related News