Dangerous weather will percolate across parts of the west-central High Plains during this evening. Large hail and damaging wind gusts will be the primary risks, but an isolated tornado cannot be dismissed either.
Scattered thunderstorms have begun to develop this evening just east of the Front Range from central Colorado to southwestern Kansas, northeastern New Mexico and the Oklahoma and Texas panhandles. This area is where the Storm Prediction Center issued a Slight Risk for severe weather. Cities within this risk include Colby, Dodge City Garden City, and Liberal, Kan.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for eastern Colorado, southwestern Nebraska, northwestern Kansas, and northeastern New Mexico. Denver and Pueblo, Colo., are two of the bigger cities located in this watch box.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for western Kansas, southwest Nebraska, Oklahoma Panhandle, and Texas Panhandle. Cities include Dalhart, Tex., Elkhart, Okla., Garden City, Dodge City, Goodland, and Hill City, Kan., and McCook, Neb.
The main threat with these storms will be damaging wind gusts and large hail, although an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. Storm activity may last into the overnight hours as activity tracks eastward but should be weaker.
In addition to the severe storm risk, heavy rainfall will fall from eastern Kansas to southern Wisconsin into today where Flood Watches have been issued. Rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches with locally higher amounts will be possible through today, leading to the concerns for flooding. Remember, if you see a flooded roadway, “Turn around, don’t drown!”
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.
The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"
