Severe Thunderstorms Threaten Central Plains

Although nighttime has arrived, severe weather remains likely across the central Plains this evening.

The Storm Prediction Center has an Enhanced Risk area, a 3 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale, which includes northern Oklahoma into southern Kansas. Cities at-risk in this region include Amarillo, Texas, and Enid, Stillwater, Ponca City and Yukon, Okla. Another Slight Risk area surrounds the main bullseye, stretching from northern Texas to central Oklahoma into central Kansas. Cities included here are Lubbock, Texas, Wichita and Liberal, Kan., and Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Norman, Okla.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect north-central Oklahoma into southern Kansas, including Wichita and Sedan, Kan., and Tulsa and Enid, Okla.  

All severe weather modes will be on the table for tonight. Damaging winds in excess of 50 mph, hail larger than golf balls, torrential rainfall and a few tornadoes are all possible threats in the central Plains. 
 
In addition to the severe thunderstorm threat, these locations will see the potential for heavy rainfall causing a flooding threat. With the threat of an inch or two rainfall tonight, with isolated higher amounts in some of these thunderstorms, flooding will also be a threat. Remember, if you approach a flooded roadway, it is always best to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” 

Make sure to frequently check WeatherBug for updates, as a watch can quickly turn into a warning upon imminent danger. It is important to stay prepared for active weather. Make sure you know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A watch means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to take place, whereas a warning means severe weather is imminent and you need to act fast to prevent damage to property or even loss of life. Remember, “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!”