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The Storm Prediction Center has issued an outlook including the front range of Colorado with a Marginal risk of severe weather today. The setup today is very similar to yesterday with a high pressure ridge (usually meaning good weather) being undercut by a weak low level trough moving through from the West.

spcSevereOutlook_day106072016

Primary Threats

Due to today's weak winds aloft, these storms will most likely not move very quickly, that combined with moisture at the surface (you'll notice it feels a bit muggy this morning) and the strong instability that will be created by afternoon heating, the main threats will be:

  • Hail
    • Some storms may have larger hail that will cause them to be severe
  • Wind
    • Due to the high based nature of the storms, strong gusty winds and microbursts are possible
  • Lightning
    • These storms will be capable of a lot of lightning, keep an eye out!
  • Flooding
    • Steering winds aloft are weak today, just as they were yesterday. This means storms may park over an area and dump large amounts of rain.

Timing

  • Thunderstorm initiation
    • Storm will begin to build over the mountains around 12PM
    • You will notice the clouds popping up over the higher terrain around this time
  • Front Range Severe Storm Window
    • Most models have these storms affecting the front range between 3-6PM
    • This will be the time frame where strong or severe storms will be most likely
  • Eastern/Northeastern Plains Severe Storm Window
    • Storms that stay strong enough to move out onto the plains will affect those areas between 5-9PM

What to Do/Expect Ahead of Today's Storms

  • Be prepared to move indoors if you are outside and storms begin to form
  • If you hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning, don't wait until it's too late!
  • Take actions to protect property that may be damaged by hail. (cars, plants, etc...)
  • Keep an eye on local forecasts throughout the day, don't be caught off gaurd!
  • Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways!

 

Stay tuned with us here or wherever your favorite, reliable weather source is through the day for weather and forecast updates.