US: Adverse weather forecast across central states through at least early June 8

Severe weather is forecast across parts of central US states through early June 8. Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, large hail and damaging winds are expected across from central Nebraska into northeast Kansas, as well as western Missouri, the Oklahoma Panhandle, and northwestern Texas. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, especially in areas where river levels are high and the ground is saturated from previous heavy rainfall. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages. Tornadoes in the impacted area are possible.

The National Weather Service's (NWS) Storm Prediction Center considers there is an enhanced risk of severe thunderstorms in areas in eastern Nebraska and northeastern Kansas, including the cities of Lincoln, Overland Park, Topeka, and Olathe. It also predicts slight risk of thunderstorms in central and other parts of eastern Nebraska, most of Kansas, and parts of western Missouri, southwest Iowa, and northern Oklahoma, including Kansas City, Wichita, and Independence.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions, including Kansas City International Airport (MCI), Eppley Airfield (OMA) in Omaha, and Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) in Wichita.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.