Beaver County: Strong Thunderstorm Approaching, Seek Shelter

Residents in Beaver County are advised to seek shelter indoors as a strong thunderstorm approaches. The National Weather Service in Amarillo, TX, issued a Special Weather Statement at 7:44 PM CDT today, September 23, warning of wind gusts up to 50 mph.

Doppler radar indicates the storm is near Slapout, approximately 11 miles southwest of Laverne, moving north at 30 mph. Locations expected to be impacted include Gate and Slapout. The statement is effective immediately and expires at 8:15 PM CDT.

Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. If you are outdoors, move inside a building for safety. Torrential rainfall is also occurring with this storm, which may cause localized flooding. Do not drive through flooded roadways.

Conditions are favorable for weak, brief funnel clouds. While typically harmless, they can briefly touch down, producing strong wind gusts. If a funnel cloud is spotted, move indoors and report your sighting to the National Weather Service.