Southeastern Colorado is under a weather alert this Friday evening, with a Severe Thunderstorm Watch active until 11 p.m. People living in the region should prepare for strong winds, large hail, and heavy rain as storms roll across the area. The National Weather Service is closely monitoring the system, especially in several southeast counties.
Counties Under Thunderstorm Watch
The storm watch includes the following counties:
Baca
Bent
Crowley
Kiowa
Las Animas
Lincoln
Otero
Prowers
These areas are at risk of wind gusts over 60 mph, hail, and sudden downpours that could affect travel and outdoor plans.
Travel Impact and Safety Warnings
Highways 50 and 287 could be affected as storms move through, especially in Otero and Prowers counties. Emergency teams have issued a warning for:
Sudden low visibility from heavy rain
Strong outflow winds that can break tree limbs or bring down power lines
Power cuts in some local areas, especially in rural towns
People near Springfield and Lamar should be ready for sudden weather changes and take action if alerts are issued.
Storm Risks and What to Expect
Here’s what residents might face this evening:
Wind gusts over 60 mph
Hailstones large enough to damage cars and roofs
Heavy rain that could cause brief flooding in low-lying areas
Lightning which poses danger to anyone outdoors
Storms are expected to develop quickly and could become more severe as the evening goes on.
What You Should Do to Stay Safe
To stay safe during the storm, officials recommend the following:
Move indoors if a warning is issued
Secure outdoor items like garden chairs, tools, or umbrellas
Avoid driving through flooded roads
Keep flashlights, charged phones, and emergency supplies ready
Stay tuned to weather updates on your TV, radio, or mobile app
Storm Watch May Be Extended
While the Severe Thunderstorm Watch is currently set to end at 11 p.m., more warnings could be issued if storms continue through the night. It’s important to stay weather-aware until the system passes completely.
Storms in southeastern Colorado can become dangerous quickly. By staying prepared, avoiding risky travel, and listening to weather updates, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones. Be alert, stay indoors when needed, and wait for the all-clear before heading out again.
