US: Severe storms in eastern and central US May 3

Event

Severe storms are forecast to hit eastern and central regions of the US, including Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio on Thursday, May 3. The storms are forecast to bring damaging winds, hail, and flash flooding to these states, as well as tornadoes to states located in the central US, through Friday, May 4. Power outages and transportation disruptions are possible in these areas.

On Wednesday, May 2, severe storms caused power outages which affected 8000 people in Kansas City and surrounding locales, and over 8000 people in the Chicago area. Also on Wednesday, at least 90 flights were canceled at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) due to inclement weather.

Advice

Individuals in the abovementioned areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts, confirm travel reservations, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult - and that floodwater may contain wastewater or chemical products; all items having come into contact with the water should be disinfected and all foodstuffs disposed of.