The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center has issued Tornado Watch Number 429 for parts of Southern Kansas, Northern Oklahoma, and the Northeast Texas Panhandle. The watch is in effect from Tuesday afternoon until the evening, spanning from 3:40 PM until 10:00 PM CDT.
The primary threats outlined in the watch include the possibility of a couple of tornadoes, scattered damaging winds with isolated significant gusts up to 75 mph, as well as scattered large hail with isolated very large hail events up to 3 inches in diameter. Thunderstorms are expected to rapidly develop along an axis from the northeast Texas Panhandle into southeast Kansas, with supercell thunderstorms likely to bring very large hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes.
The watch area covers approximately 70 statute miles north and south of a line from 110 miles west-southwest of Alva, Oklahoma, to 10 miles southeast of Chanute, Kansas. Residents in these areas are advised to remain vigilant for threatening weather conditions and to stay updated on any further statements or warnings issued by local authorities.
The Storm Prediction Center emphasizes that a Tornado Watch indicates that conditions are favorable for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in or near the watch area. It is crucial for individuals in these regions to be prepared and aware of the potential risks posed by severe weather.
Aviation warnings have also been issued, cautioning of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms with hail reaching up to 3 inches in diameter, as well as extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts of up to 65 knots. The mean storm motion vector is forecasted to be 28030, with a few cumulonimbus clouds expected to reach maximum tops of 500.
While the situation is being monitored closely, the status updates for Tornado Watch 429 have not been issued yet. It is important for residents in the affected areas to stay informed through credible sources such as the National Weather Service or local meteorological agencies for the latest updates and instructions.
As severe weather events like tornadoes can have a significant impact on communities, it is crucial for individuals to heed warnings, take necessary precautions, and have a plan in place in case of emergencies. By staying informed and prepared, residents can mitigate risks and ensure their safety during severe weather occurrences.
Sources:
1. National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center: [https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ww0429.html]
2. National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center: [https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/watch/ws0429.html]
