A tornado watch, which signals that conditions are present for a tornado to form, was issued for 12 Colorado counties Monday evening.
The National Weather Service warned people to be prepared for a possible tornado in Adams, Arapahoe, Cheyenne, Denver, Douglas, Elbert, Kit Carson, Lincoln, Morgan, Washington, Weld and Yuma.
“Tornadoes, very large hail, and strong winds will all be possible with today’s storms,” the weather service said on its website. The watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. Monday.
The weather service also issued a tornado warning for Elbert County in east-central Colorado through 6 p.m. Monday as storms move through the area.
The National Weather Service issued the alert Monday evening, warning of a severe thunderstorm about 13 miles northwest of Simla, or 26 miles west of Limon. The storm, which was moving east at 25 mph, is capable of producing a tornado and tennis ball-size hail, forecasters said.
“Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter,” the weather service wrote in its warning. “Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.”
Forecasters warn those in the area to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a well-built building, away from windows. If outside, in a mobile home, or inside a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.
This is a developing news story that will be updated.