Millions in central US face renewed threat of severe storms, flooding starting this weekend

New rounds of storms to bring potential for more tornadoes, large hail, damaging winds

Millions of people across the central United States are facing the renewed threat of severe storms and flooding starting this weekend, according to the National Weather Service (NWS)."We're looking at a very active pattern continuing across the central US through at least the middle of next week," NWS meteorologist Marc Chenard said. "There's going to be a risk for severe weather each and every day."

What to expect

The storms are expected to bring a variety of hazards, including tornadoes, large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain. The NWS has issued a "slight risk" of severe weather for a large area of the central US, including parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa. A "slight risk" means that scattered severe storms are possible.

The NWS is also warning of the potential for flooding in some areas. The storms are expected to produce heavy rain, which could lead to flash flooding and river flooding. The NWS has issued a "flood watch" for parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri.

How to prepare

There are a number of things you can do to prepare for severe storms and flooding:

• Have a plan in place for where you will go if a tornado warning is issued.
• Make sure you have a way to receive weather warnings, such as a weather radio or smartphone app.
• Gather important documents and valuables in a waterproof container.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, be prepared to evacuate if necessary.