Severe Thunderstorms Hit Southeastern Colorado as NWS Issues Multiple Warnings

Overview

• The National Weather Service in Pueblo tracked a line of strong storms on Tuesday evening and issued a special statement followed by multiple severe thunderstorm warnings for southeastern Colorado communities.
• Radar and a public spotter confirmed damaging wind gusts up to about 60 mph with a 58 mph gust reported near Manzanola and brief hail up to roughly quarter to half an inch.
• Storms were moving about 25 mph across the warned area, which allowed rapid shifts in which towns were under warning between 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. MDT.
• NWS repeatedly warned of torrential rainfall that may cause localized flash flooding and advised people to shelter in interior rooms on the lowest floor and to avoid driving through flooded roadways.
• Officials said the hazards could produce roof and siding damage, fallen trees, and vehicle hail damage, creating immediate travel and power risks and increasing the likelihood of localized clean-up and repairs in affected towns.