Tornadoes threaten millions as storm system sweeps across the U.S

In the United States, a multi-day severe weather outbreak has been forecasted to commence on Friday, March 14, 2025. This dangerous storm system will begin in the Midwest, primarily affecting regions from Peoria, Illinois, through St. Louis, Missouri, and reaching Paducah, Kentucky. Residents within these areas are facing damaging winds and the potential for tornadoes, categorized with a severe risk level of 4 out of 5. As the storm advances, the highest risk of tornadoes will shift to the Deep South on Saturday, specifically targeting Mississippi and Alabama, with New Orleans, Jackson, Mobile, and Birmingham experiencing heightened threats. A substantial portion of the population is at risk, impacting over 150 million people across various states, including severe thunderstorms forecasted to stretch from Louisiana to the Ohio Valley. Forecasts indicate winds gusting up to 90 mph, along with large hail and intense storms expected late Friday and lasting into Saturday morning. Officials warn of the likelihood of tornadoes and damaging winds across the lower and mid-Missouri Valley, as well as portions of the Mississippi Valley and lower Ohio Valley. On Saturday, heavy rain and damaging winds are anticipated to assault the Northeast, while the Southeast may encounter brief tornadoes. Simultaneously, dry conditions and sustained winds in Texas and Oklahoma raise an extreme wildfire risk. Texas has issued warnings for potential grassland fires due to critical fire-weather conditions, particularly across the Great Plains. These challenging weather conditions are common during March, when spring warmth collides with remnants of winter cold, creating severe storms. The health and safety departments are urging residents in affected areas to prepare accordingly.