Lubbock, Texas – Drivers across the South Plains should prepare for rapidly developing severe thunderstorms after 4 PM Thursday, with storms capable of producing 70 mph wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornadoes that could affect travel along I-27, US 84, and US 62.
Warm, unstable air building across West Texas will combine with an approaching disturbance late Thursday, creating favorable conditions for severe thunderstorms across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Lubbock, storms are expected to begin forming during the late afternoon hours Thursday, with the strongest activity possible through the evening. Some storms may intensify quickly and produce hail potentially reaching golf ball size or larger, along with damaging straight-line winds.
Communities including Lubbock, Plainview, Levelland, Littlefield, and Brownfield could see storms develop nearby or move in from surrounding counties during the late afternoon and evening commute. Travelers along Interstate 27 between Lubbock and Plainview or US 84 west toward Littlefield may encounter sudden downpours, hail, and strong wind gusts that could make driving hazardous.
Wind gusts near 70 mph could also blow debris onto roadways and create difficult conditions for high-profile vehicles, especially on open stretches of highway across the South Plains.
Forecasters also warn that a brief tornado cannot be ruled out if stronger storms rotate as they move through the region Thursday evening.
Residents are urged to review severe weather safety plans and ensure they have multiple ways to receive warnings, including weather alerts on mobile devices. Conditions may evolve quickly after storms begin developing Thursday afternoon, and additional advisories could be issued if the severe threat increases.
