The severe thunderstorm warning issued by the National Weather Service has been extended to 8:30 p.m. The tornado watch remains in effect until 1 a.m. as of 9:30 Thursday night.

At 7:40 p.m. doppler radio indicated the storm would be able to produce quarter-size hail and damaging winds in excess of 60 mph.

The storm was located near Lone Star and is moving northeast toward Lawrence.

— Earlier story —

Douglas County is under a tornado watch until 1 a.m. Friday. A watch means conditions are favorable for a tornado to occur in the area.

In addition to a tornado watch, the National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the county that isn’t expected to expire until 6:15 p.m.

The severe thunderstorm warning may affect the Kansas Turnpike between mile markers 202 and 206, Lawrence, Lone Star, Baldwin City, Pleasant Grove, Vinland and Eudora.

Large hail, heavy rain and damaging winds are likely with the storm, according to the National Weather Service.