Austin, Texas – Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected to erupt Friday afternoon across a broad swath from the Rio Grande through East Texas and into the Tennessee Valley, bringing damaging winds and large hail that could disrupt travel and outdoor plans into the evening.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, an enhanced risk zone stretches from San Antonio and Austin through Shreveport, Little Rock, and Memphis, with storms likely to intensify by mid-afternoon. The threat zone includes corridors of 60+ mph wind gusts and quarter- to golf ball-sized hail, particularly in central and eastern Texas.
Cities including Waco, Houston, and Jackson, Mississippi, are under slight to moderate storm risk classifications, while Dallas and Nashville could see marginal impacts. Roads such as I-10, I-20, and I-40 may be hazardous during peak travel times, with downed limbs and isolated power outages possible. Central Texas could experience the most intense cells, with the largest hailstones likely near the I-35 corridor.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and avoid unnecessary travel during the late afternoon. Severe storm activity may linger through 9 p.m., with additional advisories or watches possible as conditions evolve.
