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.
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.
Is castle rock getting anything? Mild or severe?
Nothing at the moment, the big scary storm most folks are seeing right now is well South of town and moving towards Colorado Springs.