Front Range Storms Intensify Toward Panhandles with 70 MPH Winds, Large Hail — SevereWX

Front Range Storms Intensify Toward Panhandles with 70 MPH Winds, Large Hail

Storms are firing along Colorado's Front Range and into northeast New Mexico this evening, fueled by intense heating and favorable wind profiles. Expect coverage to increase and push southeast into the Texas Panhandle -- and possibly the Oklahoma Panhandle -- through late evening.

Key Setup Factors:

• Strong daytime heating over eastern Colorado and the Texas Panhandle, paired with dewpoints in the 50s°F.
• 30-35 kt effective shear from backed surface winds and modest westerlies aloft.
• Steep lapse rates supporting explosive storm growth, though somewhat limited CAPE due to warmer mid-level temps.

Initial cells are already popping, with clusters expected to develop. Primary threat: damaging wind gusts of 55-70 mph from steep boundary layer lapse rates. Isolated hail up to 1.75 inches (golf ball size) is possible in stronger updrafts.

Stronger inflow from southerly 850 mb winds (35 kt) over the Panhandles could enhance storm organization as they move east-southeast.

Affected Areas: Southeast Colorado, northeast New Mexico, Texas Panhandle (with potential into OK Panhandle).

SPC Mesoscale Discussion 1578 highlights 60% chance of a watch. Monitor radar closely if you're in the path.

Stay Prepared: Have a severe weather plan, secure outdoor items, and know your safe spot. Check updates from local NWS offices (PUB, BOU, ABQ, AMA, GLD, DDC).

Valid: Through ~7 PM Moderate. SPC graphic: spc.noaa.gov