An approaching warm front from the west will deliver our first potential heat wave of the season and is also bringing an enhanced risk of strong thunderstorms later this afternoon.
A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for parts of Western Litchfield County until 11 p.m.
As temperatures go up, the heating of the atmosphere will destabilize the air mass and large storms will begin to develop across central and eastern New York State after 3 p.m.
The storms will likely contain torrential rain, damaging winds, hail, vivid lightning and even small tornadoes.
If you see threatening weather and dark skies in your town, take cover immediately as these storms could become dangerous and life-threatening as they roll across the state.
The rain might also cause some flash flooding in any areas where there is poor drainage or near any smaller rivers or streams still swollen from the weekend rains.
The state has posted a guide to emergency preparedness on the state Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Web site.
Check the interactive radar here.
You can check for severe alerts here.
In the event of severe weather, send your photos to photos@nbcconnecticut.com.
Photo Credit: NBCConnecticut.com
