As storms roll in, El Paso County and other parts of Colorado are under a severe thunderstorm watch through much of Tuesday night, according to the National Weather Service in Pueblo.

The weather agency says a couple tornadoes, scattered hail up to the size of tennis balls and wind gusts up to 70 mph are possible until 8 p.m.

El Paso County remains under a severe thunderstorm warning until 5 p.m. The agency reported 60 mph wind gusts and pea-sized hail.

Ellicott, Calhan and Ramah were all issued a special weather statement, warning of wind gusts of up to 55 mph, and half-inch hail 5:13 to 5:45 p.m.

The forecast

Cloudy skies and thunderstorms are to be expected Tuesday with a high of 78 as daytime heat and a large plume of subtropical moisture streaming into southern Colorado combine to create the perfect conditions for storms, according to Gazette news partner KOAA and the National Weather Service.

“Heavy rain and strong to severe storms will be possible towards early afternoon, and although severe threats should wind down around sunset tonight, periods of rain will remain possible even into the late-night hours,” KOAA Meteorologist Alan Rose said.

Showers will remain scattered throughout the Pikes Peak Region Tuesday.