Western Nebraska and northeast Colorado are under a severe thunderstorm watch until 8 PM CDT. The National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center has warned that the region may experience very large hail, up to 3 inches in diameter, and severe winds reaching 75 mph.
According to the NWS, thunderstorms could develop into a small bowing cluster this afternoon, increasing the potential for severe and damaging winds. The primary threats include scattered damaging winds with isolated significant gusts and large hail, which could pose serious hazards to property and safety. A tornado or two is also possible, particularly across north-central Nebraska.
The affected area extends approximately 85 miles east and west of a line from 20 miles west-northwest of Valentine, NE, to 15 miles west-southwest of Imperial, NE. This includes key areas such as Scottsbluff, North Platte, and Sidney in Nebraska, and Sterling and Julesburg in Colorado.
Residents in the watch area are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for severe weather. The NWS emphasizes the importance of monitoring local weather updates and heeding any warnings that may be issued. Severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes, so it is crucial to have a safety plan in place and be ready to take action if necessary.
