Shreveport, Louisiana – Storms capable of producing tornadoes and destructive hail are building across parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, with the highest risk unfolding before 9 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, a tornado watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. CDT, with conditions favorable for a couple of strong tornadoes, widespread hail up to softball size, and wind gusts reaching 80 mph. The watch covers more than 2.3 million people, including 1,044 schools and 79 hospitals.
North Texas communities along Interstate 35, including Sherman and areas near McKinney, could see rapid storm development that disrupts the evening commute. Farther east, drivers along Interstate 30 from Paris to Texarkana should prepare for sudden visibility drops and debris on roadways.
In southern Oklahoma, Ardmore, Ada, and McAlester sit in a corridor where rotating storms may intensify quickly. Emergency managers warn that outdoor activities should be postponed, and residents should identify a sturdy shelter location immediately.
Large hail could damage vehicles and roofs within minutes, while power outages are possible if 80 mph gusts materialize. Charge devices now and avoid unnecessary travel through sunset.
