Severe Storms Sweep Across Midwest, Prompting Warnings

Forecasters warn of potential tornado, flooding, and other hazards as storms move from Texas to New England.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, depicting a stormy sky with heavy clouds and dramatic lighting. The scene conveys the overwhelming, sublime scale of the natural world, with any physical structures or objects dwarfed by the powerful weather conditions.As a powerful storm system sweeps across the Midwest, the region braces for the potential of tornadoes, flooding, and other severe weather hazards.Green Bay Today

Powerful storms have swept through the central United States, leaving a trail of weather warnings across Kansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Forecasters have warned that tens of millions of people from Texas to New England could be impacted by severe weather, including the potential for tornadoes, flash flooding, and other hazards, over the next several days.

Why it matters

The Midwest is no stranger to severe weather, but the scale and duration of this storm system has raised concerns about the potential for widespread damage and disruption. Residents in the affected areas are being urged to closely monitor weather conditions and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.

The details

In Kansas, there were no immediate reports of widespread damage, but another set of storms prompted tornado watches across parts of Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. In Michigan, authorities are closely monitoring water levels at the Cheboygan Dam near Lake Huron, which has prompted a state of emergency declaration. Forecasters warn that the severe weather threat is likely to continue through the week, with additional storms expected on Tuesday and Wednesday.

  • Late Monday, storms moved through the central United States, leaving a trail of weather warnings.
  • Tuesday is expected to bring additional storms, which are likely to begin in the afternoon and continue overnight in some areas.
  • More storms are expected across the same areas on Wednesday.
  • Thursday is likely to offer a brief reprieve, before storms pick up again on Friday.

The players

Jared Guyer

A meteorologist at the Storm Prediction Center.

Gretchen Whitmer

The governor of Michigan, who declared a state of emergency on Friday due to rising water levels at the Cheboygan Dam.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The severe weather threat is typical for this time of year.”

— Jared Guyer, Meteorologist, Storm Prediction Center

What’s next

Forecasters will continue to monitor the storm system and issue additional warnings and advisories as needed. Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay tuned to local weather reports and be prepared to take shelter if severe weather approaches.

The takeaway

This severe weather outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters, especially as climate change continues to impact weather patterns across the country. Residents should review their emergency plans and disaster supply kits to ensure they are ready to respond to any potential threats.