STERLING, Colo. - The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for portions of Logan, Morgan, Washington and Weld counties in northeastern Colorado. The warning is in effect until 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.

At 4:45 p.m., a line of severe thunderstorms was located from 6 miles east of Westplains to near Adena School — roughly 21 miles northwest of Sterling to 9 miles south of Fort Morgan. The storms are moving southeast at 60 miles per hour.

The main threats include wind gusts up to 60 mph and small hail. Public reports have already confirmed damaging winds. A 58 mph wind gust was recorded west of Wiggins on Highway 34, and a 57 mph gust was reported at the Fort Morgan Airport.

Expected impacts include damage to roofs, siding and trees. Locations within the warning area include Sterling, Fort Morgan, Akron, Brush, Wiggins and several smaller communities such as Merino, Peetz and Iliff.

The National Weather Service warns that wind damage may occur before rain or lightning begins. Residents in the path of these storms are urged to seek shelter inside a sturdy structure and stay away from windows.