Isolated Severe Storms Possible Across Central and Western Regions
A marginal risk of severe thunderstorms is expected this afternoon and evening from the south-central Plains into the Ozarks, as well as parts of the western United States. In the Plains and Ozarks, scattered storms may produce isolated large hail and locally strong wind gusts, although storms should remain somewhat limited in organization. Further west, thunderstorms are likely across portions of California, northern Nevada, southeast Oregon, and southwest Idaho as a weather system moves inland. Some of these storms could become briefly strong, with hail and gusty winds the primary concerns. Overall, severe weather will be isolated, but a few storms may intensify enough to produce locally hazardous conditions before weakening later in the evening.

Elevated Fire Weather Concerns in the West and Ohio Valley
An evolving weather pattern will bring shifting conditions across the United States as upper-level systems move eastward. In the Great Basin, increasing winds and very dry air will create elevated fire weather concerns, especially across eastern Utah and northwestern Colorado. Gusty southerly winds combined with low humidity may allow fires to spread more easily, although the most critical conditions should remain brief. In the Ohio Valley and nearby regions, warm and dry conditions ahead of a slow-moving cold front will also support a short period of increased fire risk. Winds will be lighter than in the West, but dry fuels and low humidity could still allow fires to grow. Conditions should improve later as cooler, more humid air arrives behind the front.