Goodland, Kan. – A tornado watch is now in effect across northwest Kansas, with dangerous storms threatening Cheyenne to Wichita counties through 8 p.m. MDT Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 286 covers 12 counties including Sherman, Rawlins, Norton, Gove, Thomas, and Logan. Thunderstorms developing this afternoon may produce tornadoes, damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, and large hail—especially along the U.S. 36 and I-70 corridors.
Residents in Decatur, Wallace, and Graham counties should stay weather-aware as isolated supercells could quickly turn severe. Local emergency management teams are urging people to review shelter plans, charge mobile devices, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours.
Storm spotters are being activated across the region. Schools and community centers in towns like Colby, Goodland, and Norton are monitoring conditions and may delay evening activities. This watch zone covers both rural farmland and key transportation routes, increasing risk to travelers and truckers.
The tornado watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. MDT. Additional watches or warnings may be issued later this evening as storms intensify. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio and local media for real-time updates.
