DENVER — The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for a large portion of northeast Colorado until 9 p.m. Thursday, warning of scattered thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 50 mph.

Storms are expected to develop throughout the afternoon and evening across the eastern plains and foothills, with outflow winds posing the primary threat. Counties included in the watch area are Adams, Arapahoe, Baca, Bent, Cheyenne, Crowley, Elbert, El Paso, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Las Animas, Lincoln, Logan, Morgan, Otero, Phillips, Prowers, Pueblo, Sedgwick, Washington and Yuma.

Forecasters said another round of scattered showers and thunderstorms is expected Friday and Saturday, with additional chances into next week. Sunday appears to be the driest day in the extended forecast, though isolated storms may still develop in higher terrain. Temperatures are expected to hover near or below seasonal averages, except for Saturday and Sunday, which should bring slightly warmer conditions.

Residents across the watch area are urged to remain weather-aware, secure outdoor items, and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts through the evening.