Wichita, Kansas – More than 1.2 million residents across Kansas, Oklahoma, and the Texas Panhandle are under a tornado watch until 10 p.m. Tuesday, with severe storms expected to bring destructive winds, large hail, and the potential for isolated tornadoes.
According to the Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch #429 includes counties from Wichita to Oklahoma City and into northern Texas. Storms developing along a warm, unstable boundary could produce apple-sized hail and wind gusts reaching 75 mph. A couple of tornadoes are also possible in the watch area.
In Kansas, the threat spans Sedgwick, Cowley, and Labette counties, among others. Oklahoma communities including Enid, Stillwater, and Tulsa are also in the impact zone, as well as Texas counties like Hemphill and Lipscomb. The watch includes over 600 schools and nearly 70 hospitals, prompting emergency managers to stress readiness.
Officials urge residents to secure loose outdoor items, review shelter plans, and avoid unnecessary travel this evening — especially along I-35 and I-40, where fast-moving storms may cause reduced visibility and downed trees.
The tornado watch remains in effect until 10 p.m., with additional warnings possible. Stay weather-aware and be prepared to take cover quickly if alerts are issued.
