Dangerous weather will percolate across parts of the west-central High Plains tonight. Large hail and damaging wind gusts will be the primary risks, but an isolated tornado cannot be dismissed either.
Scattered thunderstorms will continue to move east across southern Kansas 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 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.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for portions of southern Kansas and northern Oklahoma. Cities include Medicine Lodge and Wichita, Kan., and Gage, Vance AFB, and Ponca City, Okla.
The main threat with these storms will be damaging wind gusts and large hail, although an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. Storm activity will last into the overnight hours as activity tracks eastward.
In addition to the severe storm risk, heavy rainfall will fall from eastern Kansas to northern Texas and Oklahoma, and across tonight 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!"
