A powerful storm system is set to bring a series of weather threats to the central United States this weekend, including high winds, fire danger, and severe storms. Approximately 30 million people across 12 states are under wind alerts as the storm system moves through the region.

The affected area encompasses a large portion of the central U.S., stretching from North Dakota to Texas. Forecasters predict that winds will gust above 40 mph on Saturday and Sunday, with some parts of the southern Plains potentially experiencing scattered wind gusts as high as 80 mph.

In addition to the wind threat, over 3 million people across five states are facing critical fire weather conditions on Saturday. The combination of dry weather and gusty winds enhances the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires. Parts of Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma are particularly at risk, with relative humidity dropping below 10% and wind gusts surpassing 60 mph.

Due to the high risk of wind-driven wildfires, Xcel Energy Colorado has decided to shut off power to several customers across the suburbs and foothills west of Denver. Affected counties include Boulder, Jefferson, Douglas, Broomfield, Larimer, and Gilpin. Red Rocks Amphitheatre near Denver has also canceled its outdoor concert for Saturday night, citing dangerous wind conditions.

While the intensity of the winds is expected to ease slightly on Sunday, areas in the southern Plains remain under a critical outlook for fire danger. Moreover, a line of thunderstorms is forecasted to bring severe weather, including damaging winds, large hail, and scattered tornadoes, to the Heartland later on Saturday afternoon and into the evening. The states of Nebraska and Kansas are likely to experience the brunt of any strong to severe storms.

Looking ahead to Monday, parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana may also be at risk for severe weather, including damaging winds, very large hail, and tornadoes, as a result of the same storm system. The timing suggests that storms will likely occur after the historic total solar eclipse, with activity expected during the late afternoon and continuing into the evening and overnight.

Meanwhile, winter alerts are in effect on Saturday for parts of the Rockies, where a recent spring snowfall has extended the ski season.

Residents and authorities in the affected states are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.