Hastings, NE – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for parts of Kansas and Nebraska, effective until 11:00 PM CDT tonight, October 21, 2024. The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center warns of potential tornadoes, isolated gusts up to 70 MPH, and hail as large as ping-pong balls.
Counties included in Kansas are Barton, Pratt, Ellis, and 20 others. In Nebraska, counties such as Franklin, Frontier, and Hitchcock are affected. Over 160,000 residents, 182 schools, and 36 hospitals are potentially exposed to the severe weather.
Residents should stay alert for further warnings, as a couple of tornadoes are possible, along with damaging winds and hail. The storm poses a significant threat, and precautions should be taken immediately to ensure safety.