A widespread severe weather pattern is expected to impact large portions of the central United States into Easter weekend, with forecasters warning of tornadoes, damaging winds and heavy rain. AccuWeather meteorologists say multiple rounds of thunderstorms will develop from Texas to the Midwest through the weekend as warm, humid Gulf air collides with colder air to the north. The setup is expected to produce large hail, wind gusts up to 80 mph and a risk of tornadoes, particularly across the Plains and Mississippi Valley. The most active period is expected late this week, with storms intensifying before continuing into the weekend. Some areas could see repeated rounds of rain, raising the threat of localized flooding. Over Easter weekend, the severe threat is expected to shift east and weaken slightly, but storms, gusty winds and cooler temperatures could still affect travel and outdoor plans across parts of the South and Midwest.