Sidney, Neb. – Strong storms are threatening the Central Plains Monday evening as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 11 p.m. CDT for portions of Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas. The storms could bring damaging winds up to 75 mph and hail large enough to dent cars and damage crops.
According to the National Weather Service, the watch includes Cheyenne County in Nebraska, Yuma and Logan counties in northeast Colorado, and multiple counties across northwest Kansas, including Sherman, Thomas, and Norton. Frequent lightning strikes are also possible as the system moves east.
Communities along I-80 near Sidney, I-76 near Sterling, and I-70 near Colby and Goodland could see the most immediate impacts during the evening commute. Emergency managers urge residents to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay indoors when thunder is heard.
The storms are expected to weaken overnight, though lingering rain and lightning may continue into early Tuesday. Additional watches or warnings could be issued if the storm line intensifies.