Dallas, Texas – Baseball-size hail capable of shattering windshields could slam parts of North Central Texas by late Wednesday afternoon, putting drivers along I-35E and I-20 at risk during the evening commute.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, an active severe weather pattern is unfolding across North Central Texas, central and eastern Oklahoma, and western Arkansas beginning Wednesday and continuing into Friday. Large hail up to 2 inches in diameter, damaging wind gusts over 70 mph and isolated tornadoes are all possible, with the highest hail risk developing during the late afternoon and evening hours.
Storms are expected to form along a sharpening boundary stretching from near Oklahoma City south toward the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Areas east and southeast of that boundary, including Arlington, Plano and McKinney, could see the most intense cells. Large hail may also impact I-44 in Oklahoma City and I-40 near Fort Smith as storms track east.
The 2-inch hail threat means vehicles left outdoors could sustain significant damage within minutes. Residents should move cars into garages before storms develop and avoid traveling during warnings. Power outages are possible where wind gusts exceed 70 mph.
By Thursday, the severe threat shifts west into portions of western Oklahoma and North Texas before expanding again Friday toward Arkansas. Additional watches and warnings are likely as each round develops. Stay weather-aware through Wednesday night and be prepared to act quickly if warnings are issued.
