SIDNEY, Neb. — A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect until 10 p.m. MDT for portions of western Nebraska, including Deuel and Garden Counties, as forecasters warn of potentially strong storms Friday evening.

According to the National Weather Service office in North Platte, scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop across southwest Nebraska and the Sandhills, with damaging wind gusts and large hail being the primary hazards.

Afternoon temperatures reached the low to mid-90s, and increased humidity is expected to push heat index values into the mid-90s.

Storm chances continue through the weekend and into next week. On Saturday, isolated to scattered storms may again develop in the afternoon and evening across the Sandhills and north central Nebraska. Forecasters say these could become severe with damaging winds and hail.

Sunday brings a marginal risk for severe weather across all of western and north central Nebraska, with additional storm chances each day through Thursday. High temperatures in the mid to upper 90s and humid conditions are expected to persist.