The National Weather Service in Topeka, Kansas, issued a Special Weather Statement at 10:06 a.m. CDT on September 12 for a strong thunderstorm located 8 miles south of Blue Rapids and moving east at 30 mph. According to the NWS, Doppler radar indicated wind gusts up to 50 mph and penny size hail. The agency warned that gusty winds could knock down small tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects, with minor hail damage possible to outdoor objects and vegetation. Locations impacted include Blaine, Wheaton, and Lillis.
KEY FACTS
- The National Weather Service issued the statement at 10:06 a.m. CDT on September 12, based on Doppler radar tracking.
- The storm was located 8 miles south of Blue Rapids and moving east at 30 mph.
- The primary hazards are wind gusts up to 50 mph and penny size hail, according to the NWS.
- The NWS says gusty winds could knock down small tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects, and minor hail damage to outdoor objects and vegetation is possible.
- Locations expected to be impacted include Blaine, Wheaton, and Lillis.
CONTEXT
Special Weather Statements are issued by the National Weather Service for significant weather events that do not meet the criteria for more severe alerts, such as warnings or watches. They are intended to inform the public and emergency officials about potentially hazardous conditions that may require caution but are not considered life threatening. This statement is based on Doppler radar observations, which detect precipitation intensity and motion but do not directly measure wind gusts or hail size at ground level. The NWS uses radar signatures to estimate these hazards, and actual conditions may vary. The storm's eastward track at 30 mph suggests it will continue moving across the region, potentially affecting additional areas beyond those initially listed. The statement does not include a specific expiration time, but such advisories typically remain in effect until the storm weakens or moves out of the area.
WHY IT MATTERS
Even though this storm is not classified as severe, the combination of strong wind gusts and small hail can cause minor property damage and create hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Downed tree limbs can block roads and cause power outages, while blowing debris can reduce visibility. Residents in the affected areas should secure loose outdoor items and stay informed about changing weather conditions.
WHAT TO WATCH
- Whether the National Weather Service upgrades the statement to a severe thunderstorm warning if the storm strengthens.
- If additional locations are added to the impact area as the storm moves east.
- Whether any reports of downed limbs, power outages, or hail damage emerge from the affected communities.