Pueblo, Colorado – Southeastern Colorado residents face a volatile evening as severe thunderstorms surge east of the I-25 corridor, bringing the threat of large hail, damaging winds, and even an isolated tornado from 5 to 10 p.m. tonight. Dangerous conditions will impact travel and outdoor plans, especially across Kiowa, Bent, Prowers, and Baca counties where storms are expected to intensify quickly.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, storms will begin near 5 p.m. before ramping up in severity. The most dangerous cells could drop 1 to 2 inches of hail, unleash wind gusts up to 70 mph, and produce locally heavy rain capable of flooding rural roads. The risk for isolated tornadoes also increases in the northern portions of the threat area, particularly in and around Kiowa County.
Power outages, downed trees, and rapid drops in visibility are possible in the strongest storms. Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel between 5 and 10 p.m., secure loose outdoor items, and be ready to move to shelter if warnings are issued. Residents in Lamar, Eads, Las Animas, Springfield, and surrounding towns should keep phones charged and tune in to local alerts.
Severe weather watches remain in effect through tonight, with additional updates likely as new warnings are issued.
