A cross-country storm is strengthening as it moves over the central United States Friday and pounding the region with damaging hurricane-force winds that are creating a blinding dust storm and a “catastrophic” fire risk.

The setup Friday through the weekend is a dangerous one in parts of the South, Midwest and East. Some tornadoes could be strong and widespread damaging winds are also a major threat.

A multi-day outbreak of severe thunderstorms will begin today and last through the weekend in the Midwest, South and East. Strong, long-tracked tornadoes, widespread damaging winds, large hail and flash flooding are all threats this dangerous bout of severe weather could produce.