A powerful line of storms is moving across the Southern Plains this evening, putting Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. CDT. The National Weather Service has issued alerts warning of winds up to 60 mph, hail as large as ping pong balls, and even the slight chance of an isolated tornado.
Areas Under the Storm Watch
This widespread thunderstorm watch affects parts of five states, especially areas in the southeastern Colorado region, southwest Kansas, northeastern New Mexico, the Oklahoma Panhandle, and the western Texas Panhandle.
Specific counties and cities under the watch include:
Southwest Kansas: Hamilton, Stanton, Morton, Kearny, Grant, and Stevens
Colorado: La Junta, Lamar, Trinidad
New Mexico: Las Vegas, Tucumcari
Oklahoma: Guymon and surrounding Panhandle areas
Texas: Dalhart, Hereford, and western Panhandle towns
What to Expect From the Storm
The main threats from these storms are:
Wind gusts up to 60 mph that can damage trees, roofs, and power lines
Large hail possibly up to ping pong ball size, which can harm vehicles and crops
Heavy downpours that reduce visibility and create flash flooding on rural roads
A low tornado risk, which can’t be ruled out entirely
Storms are expected to grow stronger as the evening progresses, especially near and after sunset.
Travel and Highway Precautions
Drivers in storm-affected areas, especially along Highway 54, U.S. Route 287, and Interstate 25, should:
Be alert for sudden drops in visibility
Pull over if hail begins or if conditions become too dangerous
Avoid flooded or debris-covered roads
Keep headlights on and drive slowly during rain or wind gusts
Evening Events and Outdoor Safety
If you have outdoor plans, especially in rural areas or small towns, it’s best to reschedule or move indoors. Many communities in the impact zone are hosting Friday night football games or events that may be disrupted or cancelled due to lightning or strong winds.
Local authorities recommend:
Bringing in or securing outdoor items
Charging mobile phones and emergency lights
Staying indoors during peak storm hours
Listening for emergency alerts or sirens, especially if a tornado warning is issued
Will the Storms Continue Overnight?
Right now, the storm watch ends at 11 p.m., but there’s still a chance of storm redevelopment or lingering activity overnight. More weather alerts could be issued if that happens, so it’s important to stay informed even after the watch expires.
With such a wide area under threat tonight, from the Texas Panhandle to southeastern Colorado, it’s important to take every warning seriously. By preparing early and staying alert, residents across the Southern Plains can reduce risk and stay safe through tonight’s severe weather.
