Elbert County

Heavy afternoon and evening rains across Colorado's plains are causing flash flooding, particularly near burn scars from recent wildfires. Severe thunderstorms with hail and wind damage are reported, along with ground delays at Denver International Airport due to weather impacts.

Colorado State Patrol is searching for a suspect who attacked a tow truck driver on Interstate 70 west of Limon, Colorado, then fled in a silver 2007 Dodge Dakota with license plate AEM-F22. The tow truck driver sustained serious injuries but was released from the hospital after the incident.

Counties in Colorado, including Elbert County, have increased fire restrictions to Stage 2 due to extreme drought and high temperatures, prohibiting fireworks and slash pile burning. Officials cite dry conditions and increased fire risk, with Summit County also implementing similar restrictions. The Elizabeth Fire Protection District highlights the need for community safety amid heightened fire danger.

Denver metro and eastern plains in Colorado are under a severe thunderstorm watch through Wednesday, with potential for large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes. Smoky skies from Utah wildfires combined with rising temperatures and moisture are fueling the storms, which are expected to develop Tuesday afternoon and persist into the evening.

A tornado watch was issued for 12 Colorado counties Monday evening, with warnings of tornadoes, large hail, and strong winds. The National Weather Service highlighted risks of flying debris, mobile home damage, and structural harm, urging residents to seek shelter. A separate tornado warning was active for Elbert County until 6 p.m., as a storm moving east near Simla and Limon posed additional threats.