Tornado Watch Issued – Severe Thunderstorms possible in St. Louis this Thursday
As the region braces for a severe thunderstorm outbreak, including potential winter storm warnings and ice storm warnings, it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest storm warning news. A tornado watch was issued for much of the area about 1:30 p.m. and continues to be in force until 9:00 p.m.
ST. LOUIS— Tornado sirens sounded in areas of the St. Louis area Thursday morning. This is an eventful weather day, with tornado warnings issued for the area early this morning.
Weather this morning at St. Louis
Storms passed quickly through the area this morning, with speeds of roughly 55 mph. The first tornado warning for the St. Louis area was issued around 7:30 a.m. After 8:30 a.m., the first round of weather moves out of the area.
Weather Forecast for St. Louis
While forecasts show the atmosphere stabilizing behind these storms by late morning, instability appears to return in full form this afternoon. We will also have lingering outflow boundaries from this morning’s convection, which may increase our chances of severe weather.
Storms are expected to redevelop in the middle to late afternoon and continue into the evening. Every type of extreme weather will be possible. Storms are expected to leave the region around midnight, with perhaps a few lingering raindrops.
Behind this active system, we will return to dry and significantly cooler conditions on Friday. High temperatures will remain in the 50s for much of the day, with lingering cloud cover. Saturday will be sunny and milder, with highs in the mid-sixties. Another cold front arrives later Saturday, cooling us down again for St. Patrick’s Day (Sunday). The skies should remain largely bright, although the highs will be in the mid-50s.
Wondering what these terms mean and when to take cover? Here’s what to know.
What does a tornado watch mean?
Tornado watches are issued whenever severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are expected in or near the watch region. This does not mean that they will happen.
What is a tornado warning?
When a tornado is on its way, the Weather Service issues a warning to take urgent shelter.
Understanding the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning is essential for safety. A ‘tornado watch’ suggests that conditions are ripe for tornadoes, indicating an increased vigilance is necessary. Meanwhile, ‘severe thunderstorm outbreak’ alerts warn of more widespread meteorological challenges, including heavy snowfall and ice accumulation, heralding the onset of a significant winter storm.
