More than 55 million people across the southern United States are bracing for severe storms on Wednesday, with tornado warnings in place for parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Alabama. The Storm Prediction Center has warned that all severe hazards are possible, including gusts over 75 mph and strong tornadoes.
The fresh wave of extreme weather comes as the South is still recovering from a tornado that ripped through New Orleans and its suburbs a week ago. Meteorologists have warned that residents in areas already hit by destructive weather may face further danger.
In addition to tornadoes, the storms are expected to bring heavy thunderstorms, large hail, and flash flooding. Dry conditions across the Southern Plains also pose a wildfire risk, with strong winds potentially fanning flames. A wildfire near Fort Hood in Texas has already burned more than 33,000 acres.
The unseasonable cold weather is also affecting the Northeast, with New York City experiencing record low maximum temperatures on Monday. The chill is expected to last through the week, while the east coast may see a temperature rise on Thursday, bringing further thunderstorm threats.
