April 23, 2025 – USA TODAY
A massive storm system is gearing up to hit the southern United States this week, bringing with it a dangerous mix of heavy rain, giant hail, and the real possibility of tornadoes.
Meteorologists say this storm isn’t just typical spring weather. It’s strong, fast-moving, and could cause serious damage across states from Texas all the way to Georgia. The worst of it is expected to hit between Tuesday and Thursday.
“This storm has everything it needs to be dangerous—moisture, instability, and wind patterns that are perfect for tornado formation,” said Laura Jenkins from the National Weather Prediction Center.
The National Weather Service has already issued warnings, and emergency officials are urging everyone in the path to take it seriously. That means tying down outdoor items, checking emergency supplies, and keeping a close eye on weather updates.
In Texas, some schools are closing early or shutting down completely. Power crews in Louisiana and Mississippi are being sent out in advance to prepare for possible outages.
Winds could hit over 70 mph, and low-lying areas are at risk of flash flooding. And yes, when they say “baseball-sized hail,” they really mean it—it can shatter windshields and injure anyone caught outside.
This storm is part of a pattern of increasingly severe weather this spring, and experts are saying it’s a wake-up call for communities to boost their preparedness.
If you live in the affected areas, charge your phone, download emergency apps, and go over your household safety plans. As Jenkins put it: “Taking action today can save lives tomorrow.”
We’ll keep you updated as this storm unfolds. Stay safe out there.
