The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Howard County.

The storms are producing lots of cloud-to-ground lightning and, NWS warns, "Move indoors immediately for your safety. If you can hear thunder ... you are close enough to be struck by lightning.”

Along with the lightning, NWS writes in its special weather statement to expect heavy rain, which will drastically reduce visibility on the roads and may lead to areas of deep water on the streets.

According to NWS, wind gusts may reach up to 50 mph. 

The severe thunderstorm watch is in effect until 9 p.m.