Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop Friday afternoon, bringing the potential for damaging winds, very large hail, and isolated tornadoes across much of east-central and southeast Missouri, including the Parkland region.

****Tornado Watch issued until 7 p.m., Friday, May 16, 2025.

Forecasters say storms will begin to form around 1 p.m., primarily along and east of Interstate 44, and will rapidly intensify as they move east-northeast. In the Parkland, storms are expected to arrive between 3 and 5 p.m., with activity lingering through about 7 p.m. before exiting the area.

Confidence is high that the atmospheric conditions this afternoon will support the development of severe thunderstorms, fueled by a moist and highly unstable air mass. The most significant threats include wind gusts exceeding 80 miles per hour and very large hail—potentially baseball-sized or larger.

There is also a risk of tornadoes, with a few possibly reaching EF-2 strength or greater. While most tornadoes that form may be weaker, the possibility of stronger tornadoes exists if storms remain isolated and persistent within the forecast area.

Forecasters caution that the exact extent of the severe threat could depend on how widespread the storms become. If too many storms develop at once, they may compete for energy and limit their individual intensity.

Residents across east-central and southeast Missouri should remain weather-aware throughout the afternoon and evening, as storms capable of producing significant damage are likely. Stay tuned to KFMO B104 News on-air and online for local updates and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued.