The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch effective until Midnight for the following counties, Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Crawford, Dickinson, Emmet, Harrison, Ida, Lyon, Monona, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Sac, Shelby, Sioux, Woodbury, Jackson MN, Martin MN, Nobles MN, Rock MN, Dakota NE, Thurston NE, Burt NE, Washington NE, Douglas NE, Sarpy NE, Lincoln SD and Union SD. Storms will begin to develop over the area in the next few hours. These storms will be capable of producing very large hail and damaging winds. A tornado can’t be ruled out but will be minimal at this time. Along with the severe weather threat comes heavy rain which may cause some rapid rises in creeks and streams in areas where more than one storm moves over.