Severe weather outbreaks increase in frequency this time of year as the ingredients that can fuel explosive severe storms - wind shear, lift, instability and moisture - become readily available over the United States.

A significant severe weather outbreak is underway across several East Coast states Monday afternoon as a powerful storm system brings heavy rain and damaging winds to millions of Americans. Multiple tornado watches are in effect from the Florida panhandle up the East Coast into New Jersey,

Dr. Reed Timmer reports from Rochester, Minnesota, in preparation to chase a severe weather outbreak that is expected to impact states from Oklahoma up to Wisconsin with the threat of tornadoes.

Today is a First Alert Day as we face the threat of a severe weather outbreak this afternoon associated with an approaching cold front. High temperatures will be in the low 70s around noon, before temperatures fall to the 40s and 50s in the afternoon.

An active stretch of stormy weather is hitting the region, and Minnesota could get more severe storms on Friday.

Minnesota will be interesting because temperatures will warm into the 60s and 70s, while dew points rise into the 50s and 60s. That’ll set the stage for more than enough energy, which is known as CAPE (Convective Available Potential Energy). If storms fire, they’ll have enough juice to get a little rambunctious.

With a severe weather outbreak sweeping across the central U.S., it's important to stay alert and stay informed if your area is threatened. Here's how the free AccuWeather app can help you prepare.

Image Credit: JustWeather