McCook, Neb. – A powerful round of severe thunderstorms is expected to impact parts of Colorado, Kansas, and Nebraska through 9 p.m. MDT Friday, with large hail and damaging winds posing a threat across the High Plains.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 313 remains in effect until 9 p.m. MDT for eastern Colorado, western Kansas, and the Nebraska Panhandle. Forecasters are warning of hail up to 3 inches in diameter, wind gusts reaching 70 mph, and a limited tornado risk, especially near the tri-state border.
Counties under the watch include Kit Carson and Yuma in Colorado, Sherman and Thomas in Kansas, and Scotts Bluff and Kimball in Nebraska. Storms are expected to remain active into the evening, with peak intensity between 6 and 8 p.m. MDT.
Communities along I-70, U.S. Route 83, and Highway 385 could see rapidly intensifying cells capable of damaging property, snapping tree limbs, and causing localized power outages. Residents are urged to stay indoors, move vehicles under cover, and avoid travel unless necessary.
The watch expires at 9 p.m., but storm activity may continue overnight. Additional warnings could be issued if new storm clusters develop later this evening.
