Midland, Texas – Damaging wind gusts, large hail, and intense lightning are possible across West Texas through 10 p.m. Thursday as a severe thunderstorm watch blankets 15 counties, including Midland, Pecos, and Reeves.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Severe Thunderstorm Watch 368 was issued just after 1:25 p.m. CDT. The watch includes areas from Brewster and Crane counties up through Ector and Glasscock, as unstable atmospheric conditions and strong upper-level support drive storm development through tonight.
Midland, Odessa, Fort Stockton, and Alpine are all within the watch zone. Scattered thunderstorms may bring winds exceeding 60 mph and hail up to 1.5 inches in diameter. U.S. Route 285 and I-20 could see rapid storm impacts, especially during peak evening travel hours. Power outages and downed tree limbs are possible with any strong cells that develop.
Residents should secure outdoor items, monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts, and avoid travel during strong storms. Stay indoors if lightning is nearby and avoid flooded roads.
This watch remains active until 10 p.m., with additional warnings likely if storms intensify.
