Stormy Weather Rocks Nation’s Midsection

The extended holiday weekend will be concluding with some of nature’s fireworks across portions of the central U.S. This includes the central Rockies and Great Plains where all modes of severe weather will be on the menu.

Thanks to the unstable environment found over the central U.S. coupled with a pair of developing systems, strong to severe thunderstorms will likely erupt later this afternoon and will remain a threat into the evening hours. In fact, the government’s Storm Prediction Center has a Slight Risk (2 out of 5 on the severe weather scale) in place from southeastern Wyoming to western Kansas, eastern Colorado and southwestern Nebraska. Here, thunderstorms will be capable of producing wind gusts in excess of 50 to 60 mph, with a chance for large hail and brief tornadoes as well.

Cities that should have a plan in place for severe weather include Cheyenne, Wyo., the eastern suburbs of Denver, McCook, Neb., Colby, Garden City and Liberal, Kan. However, the severe weather threat may also extend into the Texas and Oklahoma panhandles and eastern New Mexico later today as well. 

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!"