Houston, TX – Residents across Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi are being warned to prepare for severe weather, including the potential for tornadoes, on Saturday, February 14, 2026. The National Weather Service (NWS) and the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) have issued an alert for a significant storm system that could bring damaging winds and a few tornadoes to the region.
The SPC’s severe weather outlook for February 14 shows a “slight risk” of severe thunderstorms across much of East Texas, Louisiana, and southwest Mississippi. This includes areas such as Houston, Beaumont, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Alexandria, and Lake Charles. In particular, the regions within this “slight risk” zone face an increased likelihood of dangerous weather, including the formation of tornadoes.
The alert also includes warnings of damaging winds that could down trees and power lines, along with large hail. The National Weather Service is urging residents in these areas to stay vigilant and take steps to prepare for the possibility of severe weather.
High Risk of Tornadoes and Damaging Winds
The primary concern for the region on Saturday will be the risk of tornadoes. While severe weather has been relatively quiet in recent weeks, meteorologists have noted that conditions this weekend could lead to a spike in the development of tornadoes, particularly in areas from East Texas into Louisiana and Mississippi. The possibility of rotating storms capable of producing tornadoes is highest in the afternoon and evening hours.
The National Weather Service’s Baton Rouge office issued a statement warning that while tornadoes may not be widespread, those that do form could be strong. Meteorologists also expect intense thunderstorms capable of producing strong winds with gusts up to 70 mph.
Affected Areas
The SPC’s forecast indicates that the areas at greatest risk on Saturday include the following cities and counties:
- Texas: Houston, Beaumont, Galveston, College Station, Lufkin, Crockett, Palestine, and Nacogdoches.
- Louisiana: Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Morgan City, Alexandria, and New Iberia.
- Mississippi: Natchez, Jackson, McComb, and Vicksburg.
These regions are under a “slight risk” of severe storms, with portions of East Texas and southwest Louisiana included in the outlook’s enhanced threat zone for tornadoes and damaging winds. The risk of these storms spreading across southern Mississippi is expected to increase as the day progresses.
What to Expect on Saturday
As of Friday, February 13, the forecast models suggest that severe storms will begin developing by the afternoon, with the worst weather expected to hit between 3:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. local time. These storms could rapidly intensify, so it’s critical that residents stay aware and have access to weather updates.
The National Weather Service advises all residents in the affected areas to prepare for the potential of severe weather by ensuring their homes are secure, reviewing emergency plans, and having a weather radio or smartphone alert system available to receive notifications in case of a tornado warning.
