DENVER -- It looks like another bumpy weather evening for Colorado. Severe thunderstorms have been rumbling across the Colorado plains this afternoon, dumping heavy rain and hail. Over 2,500 lightning strikes have been recorded with storms that moved through Elbert County earlier this afternoon.

A SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH is in effect for most of Northeast Colorado until 11 p.m. tonight.

The main threats from today's storms are heavy rain, damaging winds and large hail. Dangerous cloud-to-ground lighting is likely with these thunderstorms.

Severe thunderstorms have winds in excess of 58 mph and hail greater than 1-inch in diameter.

The safest place to be during a severe thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building on the lowest floor. Stay away from windows and avoid using electrical appliances and corded telephones.

Another round of thunderstorms is possible Sunday afternoon.