Sprawling Storm Brings Damaging Winds, Tornado Watches

A sprawling storm system and cold front is sweeping across much of the central and eastern U.S. into Sunday, bringing widespread rain, gusty to damaging winds, and isolated severe storms. Forecasters warned Northeast Ohio of wind gusts up to 50 mph, a wind advisory through midday and a Gale Watch on Lake Erie, with 0.5–1.5 inches of rain that could affect outdoor events. Higher-end threats exist in parts of Michigan, where 1–3 inches of rain, damaging 50–60 mph winds, small hail and brief tornadoes are possible, and in the Ark‑La‑Tex/Mississippi Valley, where tornado watches have been issued with hail up to 1.5 inches and winds that could reach about 75 mph. Across the Midwest into the Tennessee Valley, Carolinas and Upper Midwest, gusts of roughly 25–40 mph and scattered showers will accompany cooler, blustery conditions that generally clear by afternoon or evening. Colder air behind the front will bring a heightened frost risk with lows dipping into the 30s early next week; residents should secure outdoor items, be prepared for tree damage and power outages, carry rain gear when traveling and heed local watches and advisories until winds and showers subside.