Severe storms threaten flooding across the Plains and Midwest

Severe thunderstorms are forecasted across the central United States this Saturday, driven by a summer-like weather pattern that brings hot temperatures and scattered severe weather. The most significant risk for severe weather is expected along the New Mexico-Texas border, where damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes could occur between Albuquerque and Amarillo. A Flood Watch has been issued for parts of New Mexico and the Texas panhandle, indicating the potential for hazardous conditions. In addition to the storms in the Southwest, another area stretching from Kansas to Wisconsin may experience strong to severe thunderstorms later in the day. The primary threat in this region is damaging winds, with flash flooding also a concern as rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are anticipated across parts of the Midwest over the next two days. Meanwhile, an offshore storm system has been affecting the Northeast, particularly eastern Massachusetts, where Cape Cod and Nantucket have received up to 4 inches of rain in recent days. Coastal Flood Alerts are in effect due to the combination of high tides and rough surf, with minor coastal flooding of 1 to 2 feet expected during high tide this weekend from the Mid-Atlantic to the Northeast. Looking ahead, the Gulf of Mexico may see the development of a new tropical system, with a 60% chance of formation next week. Although the storm has not yet formed, it is anticipated to bring heavy rain to the Gulf Coast, prompting residents to stay vigilant as the situation develops over the coming days.