Sudden weather warning: “Immediate preparation”

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning to Kansas residents to take immediate action Friday afternoon as a severe storm heads toward the northwestern part of the state.

The severe weather warning was issued at 1:19 p.m. local time and is expected to remain in effect until 1:45 p.m. local time. Wind gusts of 60 miles per hour and hailstones up to 1 pound (500 grams) are expected. St. Francis, Bird City and Wheeler, Kansas, among others, could be affected. Meteorologists said the storm is moving southeast at 35 miles per hour. Areas in eastern Colorado are also expected to suffer the effects of the storm, including Cheyenne, Kit Carson and Yuma counties.

“Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Wind damage to roofs, facades and trees is expected,” the statement said. “Prepare immediately for heavy hail and destructive winds. People outdoors should seek shelter in a sturdy building and away from windows.”

The winds associated with the storm are expected to cause “nearly zero visibility due to the dust being kicked up,” the statement said.

“Use extreme caution if you must travel and be alert if visibility changes rapidly,” the statement continued. “This storm will produce torrential rains that may cause flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.”

Newsweek called the NWS office in Goodland for comment.

The NWS office in Goodland, Kansas, has issued a series of severe weather warnings on its X-page (formerly Twitter). This morning, meteorologists warned of the threat of storms.

“The weather forecast calls for storms this afternoon and evening,” NWS Goodland wrote. “Damaging wind gusts and heavy hail are possible, but wind is the greater danger. Milder weather is forecast for the weekend, with the possibility of storms. No severe weather is currently expected Saturday and Sunday.”

Shortly after the severe weather warning was issued, meteorologists at NWS Goodland issued a severe weather watch for the same area. By this time, wind speeds had already increased to 70 mph.

“In these storms, wind damage occurs before there is rain or lightning,” the warning says. “Do not wait for thunder to hear before taking cover. IMMEDIATELY SEEK SHELTER in a sturdy building and stay away from windows.”

Severe weather warnings, dust warnings and a severe thunderstorm watch were also issued for the region. Similar warnings were issued for eastern Colorado and southern Nebraska.

The dust that is kicked up not only reduces visibility for drivers, but can also worsen air quality, causing problems for some people with breathing difficulties.