Weather
West Texas Weather Alert: Severe Storms, 2+ Inches of Rain Oct 14
Lubbock, TX – Residents across West Texas face an active stretch of potentially dangerous weather beginning Tuesday, October 13, as severe thunderstorms threaten damaging wind gusts, hail and a possib
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-10-12T10:40:38.555Z
Lubbock, TX – Residents across West Texas face an active stretch of potentially dangerous weather beginning Tuesday, October 13, as severe thunderstorms threaten damaging wind gusts, hail and a possible tornado before heavy rainfall raises flash flooding concerns Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lubbock, severe thunderstorms could develop Tuesday afternoon and continue through early Wednesday morning across the South Plains, Rolling Plains and portions of the Texas Panhandle.
Damaging Winds and Hail Possible Tuesday
Forecasters indicate storms could produce wind gusts near 60 mph, with hail potentially reaching golf ball size. Tornadoes are considered unlikely, although the possibility has not been completely ruled out.
Areas near Childress and Matador face a Level 2 of 5 slight risk for severe thunderstorms Tuesday, while Lubbock, Plainview, Post and surrounding communities are under a Level 1 marginal risk.
Residents should secure loose outdoor objects and remain prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Flash Flooding Threat Increases Wednesday
The threat shifts toward heavy rainfall Wednesday and Wednesday night, when widespread showers and thunderstorms could produce rainfall totals exceeding 2 inches in some locations.
The Weather Prediction Center has placed portions of the South Plains and Rolling Plains, including areas around Lubbock, Childress, Matador and Post, under a Level 2 of 4 slight risk for excessive rainfall.
This means scattered flash flooding is possible, particularly in urban areas, streets with poor drainage and locations experiencing repeated thunderstorms.
Rain chances remain elevated Thursday, especially across the eastern South Plains and areas off the Caprock. Additional severe thunderstorms are also possible.
Drivers should avoid flooded roads and never attempt to cross water covered streets.
The National Weather Service encourages residents throughout the region to monitor forecast updates as the timing, intensity and location of the strongest storms may change.