The central part of the United States is getting ready for a rough week. From Texas to Michigan, millions of people are in the path of a big storm. This storm is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and flooding. It is set to hit starting Wednesday.

The National Weather Service has some serious warnings. They say this storm could be "catastrophic" and "historic. " It might bring powerful tornadoes and widespread flash flooding. This is not just a regular storm; it could be really dangerous.

Memphis and Little Rock are at high risk for severe weather. Other cities like St. Louis, Cincinnati, and Louisville are also in the storm's path. Kentucky's governor has already declared a state of emergency. He said his state is facing some of the worst weather threats he has ever seen.

The National Weather Service has a map showing the areas most at risk for tornadoes. These include parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, Kentucky, Illinois, and Missouri. Some tornadoes could be as strong as an EF3, with winds up to 165 miles per hour. Other states like Indiana, Ohio, Mississippi, and Texas might see less severe weather but still need to be prepared.

The storm is expected to bring intense thunderstorms to the Great Lakes region, Appalachia, and Texas. Some places could see up to 15 inches of rain through the weekend. The storm will stall over the area on Thursday, potentially dropping six inches of rain in just two days. This much rain could lead to serious flooding.

Repeated rainfall could make the soil too wet, making flooding even worse. The National Weather Service in Memphis warned that this is not a routine event. It could be rare, high-impact, and potentially devastating. People in the storm's path might face long-lasting and severe disruptions to their daily lives.

The storm is a reminder of how powerful nature can be. It is important for everyone in the affected areas to stay informed and follow the advice of local authorities. Being prepared can make a big difference in staying safe during such severe weather events.

Stormy Days Ahead: Midwest and South Prepare for Severe Weather

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