Lubbock, TX – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Friday for much of West and Central Texas, as strong storms threaten to bring damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall across more than 60 counties, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma.
The watch area includes major hubs such as Lubbock, Midland, Abilene, Wichita Falls, and San Angelo, covering counties from Andrews and Ector in the west to Taylor and Wichita in the north. Residents are urged to stay weather-aware this afternoon and evening as conditions may rapidly deteriorate.
According to NWS meteorologists, storms are expected to intensify through the late afternoon hours, with gusts up to 70 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter possible. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, though the primary threats remain damaging winds and hail.
Travelers across Interstates 20, 27, and 40 may experience sudden visibility drops and hazardous driving conditions. Outdoor plans and high-profile vehicle travel should be adjusted accordingly.
Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates, ensure outdoor items are secured, and seek shelter indoors if warnings are issued later today.
