In the days just before the Spring Equinox, the threat for severe thunderstorms will be on the rise across the southern United States.  A powerful trough—a dip in the jet stream—will help to set the stage for severe weather during the middle of the week.

Residents in the southern Great Plains and southern United States should pay close attention to the forecast in the days ahead.  The risk for severe weather will take shape on Tuesday, ramp up on Wednesday, and persist on Thursday.  Fueled by Gulf of Mexico moisture, thunderstorms will bring the possibility of heavy rain, large hail, damaging wind gusts, and isolated tornadoes.

On Tuesday, a cold front pushing out of the Rocky Mountains will spark thunderstorm development in states like Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.  Thunderstorms will spread into Missouri and Arkansas as well. Isolated tornadoes are possible, with the main severe weather threats being large hail and damaging wind gusts.

There is increased risk of tornadoes Wednesday. The severe threat includes lower Mississippi River Valley, central Gulf Coast, and parts of the Tennessee Valley.  Residents of this region should plan ahead and review their severe weather safety protocols.

By Thursday, ongoing thunderstorm activity will pass east of the Appalachians and impact the southeastern United States coast from the Big Bend of Florida to the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay.

The forecast not only includes severe thunderstorm chances, but also soaking rainfall.  Flooding may become a concern in the days ahead.

Be sure to follow WeatherNation this week as we bring you the latest forecast information.