Austin, Texas – Strong to severe thunderstorms developing Saturday afternoon could bring large hail and damaging winds along the I-35 corridor through the evening commute.
According to the US National Weather Service Austin-San Antonio, an upper-level disturbance and Pacific front are triggering medium to high chances of showers and thunderstorms across South Central Texas. A marginal Level 1 of 5 severe risk is in place for much of the region.
Forecasters say the southern Edwards Plateau and Hill Country, including areas near Fredericksburg and Kerrville, will be favored for storm development during the afternoon hours. Activity is expected to shift east toward Austin, San Marcos, and San Antonio along Interstate 35 during the late afternoon and evening.
The primary threats include large hail and damaging wind gusts. Frequent lightning is also possible in stronger cells. High temperatures will reach the 70s to mid-80s, running roughly 10 degrees above seasonal averages before storms move through.
Communities along U.S. 290, I-10, and I-35 could experience brief heavy rainfall and reduced visibility during heavier downpours. Outdoor plans Saturday afternoon and evening may be impacted, particularly across the Hill Country and coastal plains.
The National Weather Service advises residents to monitor multiple ways to receive warnings and to seek sturdy shelter if a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued.
Storm activity is expected to diminish later Saturday night as the system moves east.
