Lincoln, Nebraska –A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for sections of eastern Colorado, western Kansas, and southwest Nebraska until 10 p.m. CDT. Thunderstorms moving over the region could bring strong gusts of up to 70 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
Storms began developing in eastern Colorado this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center, and are predicted to extend eastward into Kansas and Nebraska this evening. The greatest concerns from severe storms are devastating wind gusts and huge hail, which endanger both property and personal safety.
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Residents in the impacted areas are advised to stay home and avoid travel during the storm. It is also recommended to secure outdoor things that may become projectiles in severe winds. People should keep an eye out for dangerous weather and check local news for updates and potential warnings as per countryherald.
The watch region covers about 80 miles east and west of a line that runs from 40 miles west-northwest of McCook, Nebraska, to 20 miles south of Springfield, Colorado. The NWS notes that a severe thunderstorm watch indicates that conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms, but does not guarantee that they will materialize. However, preparation and care are essential during this time.