WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — With damaging storms expected to develop across the area on Monday, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation.

The declaration activates the Kansas Response Plan and the ability to expedite state agency assistance to communities in need.

The KSN Storm Track 3 team says the forecast calls for potential tornadoes, damaging wind, and large hail.

“This declaration provides emergency managers across the state the necessary tools to prepare their personnel and equipment ahead of the storms,” Kelly said in a news release. “Kansans are urged to postpone outdoor activities. Stay updated on local weather conditions by listening to a NOAA weather radio or local TV and radio stations. If a warning is sounded, take cover immediately and continue to listen to these weather information sources for instructions.”

An outbreak of severe weather is possible, especially across southern Kansas, after about 4 p.m. The most intense storms may generate baseball to softball-sized hail, very damaging winds up to 80 mph, and tornadoes. A few of the tornadoes could be strong and potentially long-track before 11 p.m.

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management activated the State Emergency Operations Center at a Level 2 (Partial) to monitor the weather, stay connected with county emergency managers, and provide assistance if requested.