Austin, Texas – Strong storms are expected to sweep across Central Texas Thursday afternoon into the evening, triggering a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for 18 counties, including Austin, Waco, and Temple, until 9 p.m. CDT.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch covers Bastrop, Travis, Bell, McLennan, and surrounding counties as clusters of intense storms threaten the region with damaging winds up to 70 mph, large hail, and frequent lightning. The watch was issued at 2:30 p.m. and remains in effect through early evening.
Cities along the I-35 corridor—from Georgetown to Killeen—should prepare for hazardous travel, potential power outages, and sudden downpours. The Texas Department of Transportation urges drivers to slow down and avoid flooded roadways, especially during peak commuting hours.
Storms could intensify near Burnet, Lampasas, and San Saba, where unstable air and high moisture levels could produce hail larger than one inch. Residents are advised to shelter indoors during warnings, charge mobile devices, and monitor local alerts.
The severe thunderstorm threat continues through 9 p.m., with additional watches or warnings possible into the night. Stay weather-aware and be ready to act quickly if alerts are upgraded.
