The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Phoenix metropolitan area on Wednesday night, covering much of Maricopa County through 10:00 p.m. MST. Meteorologists said the nearly stationary storm cell was centered over Tolleson and advised residents in Phoenix, Glendale, Avondale, Goodyear and surrounding communities to seek shelter immediately. Forecasters warned of wind gusts reaching 60 mph and hail up to three-quarters of an inch in diameter, conditions capable of damaging roofs, siding and trees. Continuous cloud-to-ground lightning and heavy downpours were reported on State Route 51 near Indian School Road and along portions of Interstate 17, while rain was expected on Interstate 10 between mile markers 128 and 144. Officials urged motorists to exercise caution on affected highways and recommended that anyone in the storm’s path move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building. The warning followed a series of special weather statements earlier in the evening for Gila and Yavapai counties as monsoon thunderstorms built across central Arizona.