SIDNEY, Neb. — The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the Nebraska Panhandle and parts of eastern Colorado, effective until 10 p.m. Monday.

Counties under the watch in Nebraska include Arthur, Banner, Box Butte, Chase, Cheyenne, Dawes, Deuel, Dundy, Garden, Grant, Keith, Kimball, Morrill, Perkins, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan and Sioux. In Colorado, the watch includes Cheyenne, Kit Carson, Lincoln, Logan, Morgan, Phillips, Sedgwick, Washington and Yuma counties.

Forecasters say the region faces a slight risk — Level 2 out of 5 — for severe storms this afternoon and evening. Isolated to scattered thunderstorms are expected, capable of producing large hail, damaging wind gusts and possibly a tornado or two, particularly in western Nebraska.

The public is advised to remain weather-aware, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and take shelter immediately if a warning is issued.

Looking ahead, the National Weather Service says the region will turn hot and dry later this week, with Thursday expected to bring the warmest temperatures.