A week of tornadoes and flooding has drained the Midwest’s preparation for Friday’s forecast, which meteorologists say could bring the strongest storms yet.

The National Weather Service warns that the region, already battered by a tornado that damaged buildings in Ottawa, Kan., could see widespread hail, wind damage and flash flooding.

Investors eye the weather‑related insurance claims, which have surged during the week, and energy markets that may face supply disruptions from damaged infrastructure.

The latest forecast underscores the economic cost of extreme weather, prompting businesses to reassess emergency protocols and insurers to reevaluate risk models.