A potent storm system is wreaking havoc across the Midwest, bringing with it a slew of severe weather warnings and watches that have left residents scrambling for safety. The multiday severe weather outbreak, which is expected to last through the weekend, has already produced numerous tornadoes, flash flooding, and damaging winds, with the worst yet to come.

As the storm system continues its eastward trajectory, the South is bracing for impact, with forecasters warning of a potentially catastrophic day of weather on Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued a high-risk warning for severe thunderstorms and tornadoes across several southern states, including Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

“It’s going to be a very active and potentially deadly day,” said John Smith, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. “We’re expecting a complex of storms to develop in the morning and intensify throughout the day, bringing with it a high risk of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.”

The Midwest has already seen its fair share of severe weather, with multiple tornadoes reported in states such as Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. The storms have caused widespread damage and power outages, with emergency responders working tirelessly to rescue those trapped by the severe weather.

As the storms move south, residents are being urged to take necessary precautions to stay safe. This includes staying indoors during the worst of the weather, avoiding travel, and keeping a close eye on local news and weather reports.

“We want to stress that this is a life-threatening situation,” said Jane Doe, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross. “We urge everyone to take this storm system seriously and take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

With the worst of the weather yet to come, residents across the Midwest and South are bracing for what promises to be a long and terrifying night. As the storms continue to intensify, one thing is certain: this is a severe weather outbreak that will not soon be forgotten.