Powerful Storm and Rain Warnings Issued in Central America

Powerful storms and heavy hail warnings have been issued across Central America, urging millions of people to stay alert. A tornado has been confirmed near Grand Island, Nebraska, prompting the issuance of a ‘Tornado Emergency.’ The southern High Plains face a high risk of wildfires, with wind speeds expected to reach 25 to 30 miles per hour. (May 18, Kathmandu)

Severe thunderstorms including lightning have already begun across the Plains and Midwest regions and are expected to continue through Tuesday, according to US meteorologists. During this period, there is a risk of powerful tornadoes (EF–3 or higher), destructive hail, strong winds, and heavy rain, they said. The recent weather system has also elevated wildfire risks from Arizona to southwestern Kansas.

The US National Weather Service confirmed a tornado north of Grand Island, Nebraska. Around 6:30 PM Sunday evening near Hebron, Nebraska, a “Tornado Emergency” was declared—this being the most serious tornado warning category. Meteorologists issue this alert only when they are certain that a large and destructive tornado is imminent.

On Sunday alone, four tornado watches were issued targeting about 3 million people in the central US. Several areas in Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota are at high risk. In some locations, wind speeds are expected to exceed 80 miles per hour. The Weather Service Center noted that the jet stream’s strongest energy currently over the Plains region, combined with high humidity, increases the likelihood of widespread and severe storms on Monday.