St. Joseph, Mo. – Damaging winds, hail, and intense lightning are possible across northwest Missouri Thursday afternoon and evening, as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. CDT for 16 counties, including Buchanan, Nodaway, and Grundy.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch was issued at 1:45 p.m. and covers a broad swath of the state’s northwest corner. Counties impacted include Atchison, Andrew, Harrison, and Sullivan, where storms could bring wind gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to 1 inch in diameter.
Residents in St. Joseph, Maryville, Trenton, and Bethany should prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions and remain indoors as storms approach. Drivers along I-29 and U.S. 36 may encounter low visibility or debris on roadways during peak afternoon traffic.
Missouri emergency officials urge residents to secure loose outdoor items, charge cell phones, and avoid travel during severe weather. Outdoor events and sports practices may need to be postponed or canceled.
This marks the latest in a series of strong systems hitting the Midwest this June, as heat and humidity fuel daily storm chances.
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect through 9 p.m., with additional warnings likely if storms intensify.
