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Severe storms and drought in the Midwest

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-11 12:40 UTC → 2026-08-11 21:26 UTC · added removed

Weather patterns in the Upper Midwest have transitioned from a period of forecasted thunderstorms and heavy rain across the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Iowa to a focus on severe storm hazards and significant drought conditions in Minnesota. Initial forecasts indicated a complex of storms capable of producing lightning, strong winds, and small hail, with some areas potentially experiencing hazy sunshine due to wildfire smoke. While these systems brought precipitation, Minnesota has faced ongoing dryness. Recent data from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows that 89 percent of the state is abnormally dry, with 34 percent categorized in severe drought. As of August 10, 2026, a widespread pattern of the severe weather is impacting pattern has escalated into widespread disruptions across the Midwest, potentially organized as mesoscale convective systems (MCS). Hazards include damaging East, and Southern Plains. In the Chicago area and northwestern Indiana, wind gusts that could exceed 75 mph, large hail, reaching 80 mph have knocked out power to over 600,000 customers. This follows earlier outages affecting approximately 175,000 homes and torrential downpours. Significant flash flooding is a major concern, particularly businesses across four states, primarily in Virginia. In the Ohio Valley and central Appalachians, where Valley, heavy rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour are possible. While the Midwest and Ohio Valley face risks of destructive winds has triggered flash flood emergencies and flooding, Minnesota continues to experience both multiple water rescues, specifically in Perry County, Ohio. The Cincinnati region remains under an enhanced risk for severe storms and ongoing drought conditions. Authorities a high risk for excessive rainfall. Other impacted areas include Kentucky, Indiana, and West Virginia, where wind damage and flash flooding have warned been reported. In the Northern Plains, including South Dakota and Nebraska, threats of potential power outages, downed trees, large hail and flash flooding, urging residents to avoid driving damaging winds persist. Additionally, Maryland has faced tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings near the Baltimore metro area. Forecasters suggest this active weather pattern may continue through flooded roadways. the middle of the week.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-11 21:26 UTC Severe storms and drought in the Midwest
  2. 2026-08-11 12:40 UTC Severe storms and drought in the Midwest
  3. 2026-08-10 22:36 UTC Weather patterns in the Upper Midwest

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