Strong storms are expected to roll into Colorado on Wednesday and they could drop quarter to golf ball-size hail in parts of the state.

While storms will likely be widespread, the wildest weather is expected to hit the Eastern Plains, particularly northeast Colorado, on Wednesday afternoon and evening. It will likely bring a risk of severe hail ranging from dime to golf ball-size, accompanied by damaging wind gusts, lightning, and heavy rain for brief periods.

In many counties over the northeast corner of the state, including Logan, Sedgwick, Phillips, and Washington, some afternoon to evening thunderstorms may be severe. Large hail up to a golf ball size and winds gusting up to 70 mph will be the main threats.

Strong thunderstorms capable of producing 60 mph winds and quarter-sized hail may also form over the Eastern Plains and I-25 corridor. Counties impacted include Kiowa, Prowers, and Bent. Surrounding areas are likely to see dime-sized hail, wind gusts to 50 mph, frequent lightning, and heavy rain.

Thunderstorms will continue each day through Saturday, with the next set of storms returning Thursday with large hail potential and damaging winds. The eastern part of the state can expect to see the greatest impacts, including in Kiowa, Prowers, and Baca counties. Flash flooding may also occur.

The forecast also warns of melting snowpack. With warm temperatures expected this weekend, snowpack will be melting faster across higher elevations, causing rivers and streams to swell with dangerously cold and swift-moving waters.

Editor’s Note: All weather statements are subject to change. Be prepared for the unexpected when it comes to weather in the mountains. Be sure to check the forecast before heading out, and be prepared for some snow on high elevation trails.

There will be a slight risk of severe thunderstorms over the northeast corner of the state this afternoon & evening. Large hail up to golfball size, and damaging wind gusts to 70 mph will be the main threats. Be prepared to take shelter if threatening weather approaches. #cowx pic.twitter.com/fLldzPJYzO — NWS Boulder (@NWSBoulder) June 3, 2020

Hot again today, with isolated t-storms. Low risk of severe storms over the far ern plains, with wind gusts over 60 mph possible. #cowx pic.twitter.com/z6j36SvTt1 — NWS Pueblo (@NWSPueblo) June 3, 2020