Lubbock, Texas – Storms capable of 60 mph wind gusts and hail up to ping pong ball size could move into parts of the South Plains before sunset Friday, putting drivers and outdoor plans at risk within hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Lubbock, thunderstorms are expected to develop across eastern New Mexico and the Texas Panhandle this afternoon, with some cells drifting southeast into the southwestern Texas Panhandle and western South Plains through the evening. The strongest storms could produce wind gusts between 50 and 60 mph along with large hail.
Communities including Muleshoe, Littlefield, and areas west of Lubbock face the highest risk window between roughly 3 p.m. and midnight. While tornadoes are not expected, isolated severe storms could still create hazardous travel, especially along U.S. 84 and U.S. 385 where sudden crosswinds and reduced visibility may occur.
Most of the organized storm activity is expected to remain north and west of Lubbock, but even isolated storms drifting into the region could intensify quickly. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, move vehicles under cover, and avoid travel during peak storm activity if warnings are issued.
The storm threat will taper late Friday night, but additional updates are possible if stronger cells organize near the New Mexico border.
