Topeka, Kan. – A tornado watch is in effect across much of eastern Kansas until 9 p.m. Monday, with dangerous storms capable of producing tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 294 covers 47 counties, stretching from Wichita to Kansas City and including Topeka, Lawrence, and Emporia. The watch was issued at 1:40 p.m. CDT and includes high-population areas like Johnson, Shawnee, Douglas, and Sedgwick counties.
Cities such as Manhattan, Leavenworth, and Pittsburg are also included in the alert area. Storms may rapidly intensify this afternoon and evening, particularly along the I-35 and I-70 corridors. Residents are urged to stay weather-aware, keep phones charged, and be ready to move to shelter quickly if warnings are issued.
Travelers along U.S. 69 and U.S. 400 should expect possible delays if storms cross major roadways. Some outdoor events may be canceled or postponed due to lightning and wind threats.
The tornado watch remains active until 9 p.m., but forecasters warn that additional watches or warnings may follow if storm activity persists into the night.
