Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Central and South Central Kansas
The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of central and south central Kansas, effective until 9 p.m. CDT this evening.
The watch covers 13 counties, including Barton, Ellsworth, Lincoln, McPherson, Rice, Russell, Saline, Harper, Harvey, Kingman, Reno, Sedgwick and Sumner.
Communities within the watch area include Hutchinson, Wichita, Salina, McPherson, Newton, Great Bend, Wellington and Kingman, along with several smaller surrounding towns.
A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for the development of severe storms in and around the designated area. These storms could produce large hail, damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall.
Residents are encouraged to remain weather-aware throughout the evening, monitor local forecasts and be prepared to take shelter if warnings are issued. Officials recommend having multiple ways to receive weather alerts, especially as conditions can change rapidly.