Severe Storms Forecast for 6 Central U.S. States

National Weather Service warns of potential hail, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes this week

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center has issued a 'slight' elevated risk of severe weather for six central U.S. states - Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas - from Wednesday through Saturday. Forecasters warn of the potential for severe thunderstorms with large hail, damaging wind gusts, and even tornadoes during this period.

Why it matters

Severe storms can cause significant property damage, power outages, and even loss of life, so residents in the affected states need to closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued. This is an important early spring weather event that could impact millions of people across the central U.S.

The details

According to the Storm Prediction Center, the severe weather threat will be highest on Wednesday, with the potential for 'severe storms with large hail and damaging wind gusts' from the southern Plains into the western Ozarks. Marginally severe storms are also possible from the northern Ozarks into the Ohio Valley. The severe threat is expected to persist into the late evening hours as a low-level jet strengthens.

  • The elevated risk of severe weather is forecast from Wednesday, March 4 through Saturday, March 7.
  • The highest threat for severe storms is expected on Wednesday, March 4.

The players

National Weather Service (NWS)

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States.

Storm Prediction Center

A division of the National Weather Service that specializes in forecasting severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.

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What’s next

Residents in the affected states should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are issued.

The takeaway

This early spring severe weather event highlights the importance of staying vigilant and prepared for potentially dangerous storms, especially in the central U.S. where tornado risk is higher. Heeding weather warnings and having a safety plan can help save lives when severe storms strike.