Lubbock, Texas – Large hail and damaging winds could hit the Texas Panhandle and Rolling Plains by late Thursday afternoon, with storms packing gusts up to 70 mph and hail as large as baseballs, the National Weather Service warned.
According to the NWS in Lubbock, the threat will escalate through Thursday evening and linger into early Friday morning, especially across cities like Plainview, Dimmitt, Childress, and Floydada. A Level 3 “Enhanced Risk” designation covers parts of northwest Texas, meaning multiple intense storms are possible.
The latest radar update at 11 p.m. Wednesday showed storms already impacting much of the region, stretching from Silverton to Paducah, and tracking southeast. Forecasters highlighted lightning, frequent wind gusts, and large hail as primary hazards.
Drivers along U.S. 87, U.S. 70, and State Highway 114 should prepare for hazardous conditions. Residents in mobile homes or older buildings are urged to find sturdier shelter. Charging devices and securing outdoor items are recommended as isolated power outages are possible.
Severe weather could persist through early Friday, with more alerts possible depending on storm development. Stay tuned to local NWS updates and have a plan ready in case conditions worsen.
