ST. LOUIS, MO — Millions of residents across Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri are waking up to a dangerous weather setup this Sunday that forecasters say could turn violent before midnight — and the worst may not arrive until most people are already asleep.
A Level 2 of 5 severe risk has been issued across a wide corridor stretching from the southern Plains into the Ohio Valley, covering major cities including Wichita, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, St. Louis, Louisville, Indianapolis, and Cincinnati.
The First Wave Is Already Moving
A batch of storms is already rolling east this morning, bringing the first taste of what’s ahead. But forecasters warn this is only the opening act. As afternoon heat builds behind the initial round, new and potentially stronger storms are expected to fire along the front.
Hail the Size of a Baseball — Yes, Really
Large hail is the primary threat this afternoon as storms develop. The risk covers a broad corridor from eastern Colorado and Kansas straight through Missouri, Indiana, and into Kentucky. Hailstones large enough to shatter windshields and damage roofs are possible in areas where storms intensify.
Eastern Missouri: Tornado Watch Zone
Forecasters are keeping a close eye on eastern Missouri this afternoon. If storms there remain isolated rather than merging together, conditions could allow one or more tornadoes to spin up — including a potentially strong one. Residents in this zone should not wait to prepare.
Tonight: The Line Arrives — and It Hits Hard
By tonight, scattered storms are expected to consolidate into a single powerful line pushing east. When that happens, the threat shifts. Damaging wind gusts up to 75 mph become the main danger, capable of downing trees, snapping power lines, and leaving widespread outages across multiple states.
What You Should Do Right Now
Do not wait for sirens. Charge your devices now, identify your shelter spot, and keep a weather alert app turned on tonight. If you live in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, or Ohio — this storm system is headed your way.
Stay weather-aware. Tonight is not the night to ignore the forecast.
