ATLANTA (AP) — U.S. government forecasters are using a relatively rare “high-risk” designation — the highest category they use — to warn that a major tornado outbreak appears likely Wednesday in an area that’s home to about 2.5 million people.

South. An Enhanced Risk 3/5 for severe weather remains in place today and tonight, with a High Risk for excessive rainfall continuing into tonight as well. All severe weather hazards are possible, including damaging winds,