Norton, Kan. – Damaging winds up to 70 mph and quarter-size hail could batter parts of northwestern Kansas Saturday evening, as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until midnight CDT for counties including Norton, Rooks, and Sheridan.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 529 includes 13 Kansas counties stretching from Decatur to Thomas and 13 counties in south-central Nebraska, including Adams, Hall, and Red Willow. Storms are expected to intensify into the evening hours with the potential for rapid movement and dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning.
Residents in Graham, Phillips, Osborne, and Rawlins counties should prepare for quick-developing cells that may lead to downed trees, power outages, and hazardous travel. Nebraska communities such as Kearney, Hastings, and McCook could also face significant impacts as the line of storms tracks eastward.
Emergency management officials recommend charging devices, securing outdoor items, and avoiding travel during peak storm periods. Motorists on U.S. Routes 36 and 183 should remain alert for water-covered roads and debris.
While storms are expected to weaken overnight, additional weather alerts may follow if new cells form or intensify. Residents are encouraged to monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts for updates.
