Weather experts are monitoring a possibly catastrophic derecho — a surge of straight-line winds comparable to hurricane strength — anticipated to move across 15 states, ranging from the Great Plains to the Eastern Seaboard. With wind speeds predicted to surpass 100 mph, meteorologists are alerting of potential severe damage to infrastructure, widespread power outages that could last for several days, and the risk of loss of life. Residents from Nebraska to Virginia are being urged to take immediate precautions.