Fast-moving storms pummeled parts of the Midwest with hail, strong wind, and heavy rain on Monday, flooding streets and stranding commuters who required rescue from their vehicles, authorities reported. Additional storms are expected later in the day.
Millions at Risk
More than 64 million people across the Midwest face a significant threat of severe storms on Monday afternoon and evening. The St. Louis region is at moderate risk for multiple long-track tornadoes and large hail, according to the National Weather Service.
“The greatest area of concern is across central Missouri into southern Illinois and into southeast Missouri,” said Evan Bentley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, via social media. “We could have multiple supercells capable of all hazards, including tornadoes, large hail and wind gusts,” he added.
Water Rescues in Kansas City
In Kansas City, Missouri, the local fire department responded to 11 water rescues from vehicles starting shortly before 6 a.m. Monday, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. Most incidents occurred in typical high-water areas following heavy rains. No boats were required, and no injuries were reported.
The weather service recorded 3.2 inches (8.1 centimeters) of rain falling in a six-hour period ending shortly before 7 a.m. at Kansas City International Airport.
Weekend Tornadoes in Texas
The storms followed a weekend of violent weather. In northern Texas, a tornado-producing thunderstorm left at least two people dead and displaced at least 20 families, with many homes sustaining major damage, authorities said Sunday.
National Weather Service teams confirmed an EF-2 tornado with peak winds of 135 mph (217 kph) touched down in the Runaway Bay area on Saturday. An EF-1 tornado with peak winds of 105 mph (169 kph) was confirmed in the Springtown area.
“Access has been difficult due to blocked roadways and downed utilities, but crews have continued pushing forward to reach those in need,” said Wise County Judge J.D. Clark, the county's chief executive.
