Austin, Texas – Austin-area commuters could face hazardous travel early Tuesday as a round of severe storms brings damaging wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornado potential to Central Texas before noon.
According to the National Weather Service in Austin-San Antonio, the highest threat zone—rated Level 3 out of 5 on the severe thunderstorm risk scale—covers much of the I-35 corridor from San Antonio through Austin to Waco. The most intense storms are expected during the morning hours, with lingering rain and isolated activity possible into the afternoon.
Cities like Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, and Round Rock may see wind gusts exceeding 60 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter. Emergency officials urge residents to shelter indoors during storms and delay outdoor plans. Drivers are advised to monitor road conditions and avoid flooded or debris-covered routes.
While the risk of tornadoes remains isolated, it is most pronounced in areas shaded orange on the storm outlook map, including eastern Travis, Hays, and Williamson counties. The system is also expected to produce locally heavy rainfall, which could trigger brief urban flooding in low-lying areas.
