Abilene, Texas – Large hail and damaging winds up to 70 mph are expected across the Big Country and northwest Concho Valley Thursday evening, with storms likely to reach cities like Sweetwater, Roby, and Rotan between 6 and 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Abilene/San Angelo, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 10 p.m. CDT. Scattered hail up to apple size is the primary hazard, with an isolated tornado also possible. The threat zone stretches from Big Spring to Abilene and north into Haskell, eventually impacting cities east toward Brownwood and Brady late tonight.
Storms are currently developing south of Lubbock and expected to move southeast through the evening. Timing will vary: Abilene may not see storms until after 8 p.m., while areas closer to I-10 could experience storms well into the early morning hours Friday.
Residents in the watch area should secure loose outdoor items, avoid non-essential travel during storms, and have multiple ways to receive warnings. Power outages and hazardous road conditions are possible, especially during overnight hours.
The storm watch remains active through 10 p.m. Thursday, with updates expected as the system evolves. Further advisories may be issued into the night.
