Get ready for a windy Thursday, folks. The National Weather Service has issued a warning that up to nine U.S. states could be hit by severe winds tomorrow, May 14. We're talking gusts that could reach 65 to 70 mph in some areas—enough to knock down trees, damage property, and make travel a real headache.
While a 30 mph breeze might feel like a typical spring day in many parts of the country, anything above that threshold is considered significant. And tomorrow's forecast? It's well above that. The NWS is giving a 5 to 15 percent chance of strong winds across a broad swath of the central and southern Plains, stretching from Texas all the way up to Illinois.
Which States Are in the Crosshairs?
The nine states that could get hit hard include Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, Colorado, Iowa, Missouri, and Illinois. That's a lot of territory, and if you live in any of these areas, you'll want to keep an eye on the sky—and your weather app.
This isn't the first time this spring that strong winds have threatened the region. Just recently, six states were on high alert for 70 mph winds that threatened travel and power. And earlier this week, three states were bracing for hail and 60 mph winds in a severe thunderstorm warning.
What to Do When the Wind Howls
When severe winds are forecast, the safest place to be is indoors. If you have outdoor activities planned, it's wise to postpone them until the advisory or warning is lifted. But what if you're caught outside when the gusts kick up? Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Take cover next to a sturdy building or under a shelter.
- Stay clear of roadways and train tracks—a sudden gust could push you into traffic.
- Use handrails on outdoor walkways and avoid elevated areas like roofs without proper railing.
- Watch for flying debris. Tree limbs can snap, and street signs can come loose. Also, keep an eye on balconies for items that might fall.
In some cases, these winds can also kick up dust and reduce visibility, making driving hazardous. If you're on the road, slow down and pull over if conditions get too rough.
More Than Just Wind
While the main story here is the wind, it's worth noting that these same storms could bring other hazards. For example, hail the size of quarters is threatening seven states in the same general region. And four states are bracing for extreme thunderstorms that could include hail, wind, and lightning.
So, if you're in one of the nine states under the wind warning, stay alert tomorrow. Charge your phone, secure any loose outdoor furniture, and have a plan in case the power goes out. Mother Nature is bringing some serious gusts, and it's better to be prepared than caught off guard.
