Severe Thunderstorms Slam Colorado and Kansas with Ping Pong Ball-Sized Hail, Damaging Winds

Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued Thursday for parts of Colorado and Kansas, with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning of hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter—the size of ping pong balls—and winds nearing 60 mph.

Why It Matters

The latest storms add to a week of deadly and destructive weather across the U.S.. In Texas, catastrophic floods killed over 100 people, including 27 at Camp Mystic in Kerr County. Flooding has also hit the East Coast, following days of intense rain and thunderstorms.

What to Know

Ping pong-sized hail was forecast in Kansas.
Quarter-sized hail was expected in parts of Colorado.
Wind gusts up to 60 mph could damage structures, vehicles, crops, and pose risks to people and animals outdoors.

Counties Affected:

Kansas: Kearny, Finney, and Scott counties (warnings active until 3:45 p.m. CDT).
Colorado: Areas around Denver, Colorado Springs, and El Paso County (warnings expired between 2:15–2:30 p.m. MDT).

Threats Persist

Although some warnings have expired, severe weather continues across the region, and additional watches remain in effect through Thursday night.

“Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected across the forecast area this afternoon into early evening. Outflow wind gusts up to 50 mph are possible,” said NWS Denver in a hazardous weather outlook.

What Experts Say

“Large hail is common in this part of the country during summer,” said NWS meteorologist Jon Finch in Dodge City, Kansas.

The NWS has emphasized that storms may develop rapidly, and warning times can change based on how conditions evolve.

What You Should Do

Seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building.
Stay on the lowest floor and away from windows.
Keep an eye on official weather updates via radio, apps, or the NWS website.
Prepare for potential travel disruptions, property damage, or crop losses.

What’s Next

The NWS will continue monitoring conditions and issue new warnings as needed. Residents in Colorado and Kansas are advised to stay alert and ready for more severe weather as the evening progresses.

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