The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a severe storm alert for Monday, with Emporia and surrounding areas facing significant risk of dangerous weather conditions this afternoon and evening.

Forecasters predict severe thunderstorms will develop today, bringing multiple hazards including large hail up to 2 inches in diameter, damaging wind gusts of 60-70 mph, and possible tornadoes. The storm system has been classified as an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 out of 5).

"Isolated to scattered storms may develop across much of the area. These storms may turn severe," according to the NWS briefing. The most dangerous period for Emporia residents will be between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m., with initial storm development possible as early as 2 p.m.

Weather models show storm intensity will peak during the late afternoon and early evening hours as storms develop along the advancing dryline. These individual storms may eventually merge into a line or cluster as they move eastward through the evening.

Officials note that Emporia sits in a particularly vulnerable position based on forecast maps. During the critical 4-7 p.m. window, the city appears directly in the path of potential storm development.

"Additional storms develop in this area along the dryline. These storms may grow into a line or cluster of storms as they move east through the late afternoon/early evening," the NWS stated.

The severe risk is expected to diminish by midnight, though some storms may linger into early Tuesday.

Meteorologists emphasize medium confidence in the exact placement of the dryline, which will determine precisely where storms initially form. However, confidence is high that severe weather will impact northeast and east-central Kansas, which includes the Emporia area.

Emergency management officials urge residents to have multiple ways to receive warnings, including weather radio, mobile apps, local media, and outdoor sirens. The NWS recommends staying indoors away from windows during severe thunderstorms, seeking shelter in a sturdy structure during tornado warnings, and avoiding flooded roads.

For the latest information, residents can check radar imagery and severe weather reports at weather.gov or follow @NWSTopeka on social media.