Midland, Texas – Severe storms are expected to erupt across West Texas and southeast New Mexico through 11 p.m. Thursday, bringing 85 mph wind gusts, hail as large as softballs, and the risk of a tornado.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for areas from Carlsbad, New Mexico, to north of San Angelo, Texas. Thunderstorms are likely to intensify through late afternoon, developing into supercells capable of producing 1- to 3.5-inch hail and isolated tornadoes before forming a fast-moving cluster heading east.
Communities in the watch zone—including Hobbs, Midland, Odessa, and Big Spring—could experience widespread wind damage and flying debris. Motorists are urged to delay travel and stay alert for sudden power outages and downed trees. Airports may see delays due to extreme turbulence and damaging wind shear.
This is the first widespread severe weather event in this region since early spring. Residents should charge phones, secure outdoor items, and monitor weather alerts closely.
The watch remains in effect until 11 p.m. CDT, and additional warnings are likely as storms track eastward into central Texas overnight.
