Burlington, Colo. – Residents across eastern Colorado should prepare for severe storms Friday evening as damaging winds and large hail sweep through the High Plains.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 313 is in effect until 9 p.m. MDT for 12 eastern counties, including Baca, Kit Carson, Lincoln, and Logan. Forecasters warn of hail up to 3 inches in diameter and wind gusts reaching 70 mph, with a brief tornado not ruled out.
Communities such as Lamar, Limon, and Sterling are in the path of potentially dangerous supercells. Outdoor events should be postponed, and drivers are urged to avoid travel on Highways 385, 24, and I-70 during the most active storm window between 5 and 8 p.m.
Storm clusters could organize rapidly, increasing the risk of damaging winds and hail cores capable of denting vehicles, smashing windows, and injuring livestock.
Power outages, downed trees, and flash flooding in rural roadways are possible. Residents should shelter indoors and monitor NOAA Weather Radio or mobile alerts.
The watch is expected to expire by 9 p.m., but additional warnings could be issued if new storm cells develop over the region.
