The central United States is bracing for a second round of severe weather this weekend, as a classic springtime setup brings the risk of large hail, wind damage, and tornadoes to the region. The National Weather Service has issued alerts for multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms expected to hit late this week.

The source of these severe thunderstorms can be attributed to a western trough, a southward dip in the jet stream that is set to develop in the West later this week. Two prominent disturbances will ride through this u-shaped jet stream, tracking from the Rockies into the central US starting Thursday and continuing through the weekend.

On Thursday and Thursday night, areas from northwest Texas to western and central parts of Oklahoma and Kansas into south-central Nebraska are at risk of large hail and wind damage. There is also a possibility of isolated tornadoes in these areas.

As the system progresses, the risk of severe weather will shift farther east on Friday and Friday night, impacting a broad area from Iowa to north-central Texas. Cities such as Dallas-Fort Worth, Kansas City, Tulsa, and Des Moines may experience severe thunderstorms capable of producing large hail, wind damage, and a few tornadoes during the afternoon and evening hours.

This weekend, the second disturbance will move into the Plains, bringing the potential for severe thunderstorms from northern Texas into much of Oklahoma and southern Kansas. Major cities like Dallas-Fort Worth, Oklahoma City, and Wichita are within the risk area.

While specific details for Sunday are still uncertain, there is a likelihood of continued severe weather in the eastern regions. The exact threat area, however, cannot be pinpointed at this time.

The combination of warm and increasingly muggy air from the Gulf of Mexico, pulled up by the disturbances, creates an unstable environment ideal for thunderstorm development. The central United States is no stranger to this common springtime setup, but residents are urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and be prepared for potential severe weather conditions.

Authorities advise taking necessary precautions, such as finding shelter during severe thunderstorms, securing outdoor objects, and staying informed through local weather alerts.