Dangerous Storms Possible Over West Texas

Scattered severe thunderstorms are forecast to develop over parts of West Texas this afternoon.

A dry line and surface low pressure coupled with an upper level disturbance over the Great Basin will help dangerous thunderstorms develop over parts of West Texas, including the Panhandle. The main threat with this activity will be large hail and damaging winds.

The Storm Prediction Center has a Slight Risk outlined from Fort Stockton to Amarillo, Texas, in the panhandle and into southwestern Oklahoma. A Slight Risk is a level 2 of 5 on the severity scale. Hail may get as large a tennis balls and produce wind gusts near 60 to 80 mph. As the sun goes down, thunderstorms are expected to weaken before they reach the Texas Hill Country and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Additional severe weather will be possible on Saturday a bit further east in Texas and into the northern Plains.

Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they be issued. A "watch" means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur, and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A "warning" means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.

The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"