Abilene, TX – Severe thunderstorms could sweep across West Central Texas late Tuesday afternoon through the overnight hours, bringing destructive wind gusts, giant hail and a risk of isolated tornadoes from San Angelo to Abilene and east toward Brownwood.
According to the National Weather Service in San Angelo, storms may begin developing across western counties around mid-afternoon Tuesday before spreading east during the evening and overnight. The earliest activity could begin near Sterling City, Barnhart and Ozona around mid-afternoon, with stronger storms likely expanding toward San Angelo, Ballinger and Sonora by early evening.
By Tuesday night, the severe threat shifts east toward Abilene, Coleman, Brady and Brownwood, where storms could persist well past sunset and into the overnight hours. Large hail up to 3.5 inches in diameter and wind gusts stronger than 74 mph are possible with the strongest cells. Meteorologists say a few storms could briefly rotate, producing isolated tornadoes.
Drivers along Interstate 20 near Sweetwater and Abilene and along U.S. Highway 87 near San Angelo may encounter sudden downpours, hail-covered roads and rapidly changing visibility. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, park vehicles under cover and ensure phones and weather alerts remain active through the night.
Storms should gradually exit eastern counties before daybreak Wednesday, though additional watches or warnings could be issued if storms intensify.
