Severe Weather and Flooding Threats for the Central U.S.; Fire Weather Concerns for the Western U.S.

Severe weather and flooding threats will continue for portions of the central U.S. through Thursday, focused from the central High Plains to the Mid-Mississippi Valley. Hot and dry conditions will fuel fire weather concerns for the Intermountain West, and dry thunderstorms may spark additional wildfires. Dangerous heat will build across the southern U.S. Friday into the weekend. Read More >

Rip Current Risk Definitions
Low Risk	Surf zone conditions are not expected to support the development of life threatening rip currents. However, life threatening rip currents often occur in the vicinity of groins, jetties, reefs, and piers.
Moderate Risk	Surf zone conditions are favorable for the development of life threatening rip currents.
High Risk	Surf zone conditions will likely support the development of life threatening rip currents.

Lightning Risk Definitions
Low Risk	Thunderstorms are only expected to be isolated or widely scattered in coverage (20 Percent Chance). Atmospheric conditions do not support frequent cloud-to-ground lightning strikes.
Moderate Risk	Thunderstorms are forecast to be scattered in coverage (30-50 Percent Chance). Atmospheric conditions support frequent cloud-to-ground lightning strikes.
High Risk	Thunderstorms are forecast to be numerous or widespread in coverage (60-100 Percent Chance). Atmospheric conditions support continuous and intense cloud-to-ground lightning strikes.

Waterspout Risk Definitions
None	No threat of waterspouts
Low Risk	Showers or thunderstorms are possible, but conditions are not particularly favorable for waterspout development.
Moderate Risk	Showers or thunderstorms are possible, and conditions could support the development of waterspouts. Mariners and beach-goers should keep an eye on the weather.
High Risk	Showers or thunderstorms are possible, and conditions are supportive of waterspout development. Mariners and beach-goers should keep a close eye on the weather. Listen for possible statements or warnings.