Hot and humid conditions combined with cold air aloft will fuel gusty thunderstorms today and tonight.
There will be two distinct areas of concern for severe weather today. The first will be found across the Deep South and Southeast states. The second area will be located over the southern Plains.
The government’s Storm Prediction Center has issued an Enhanced Risk (3 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale) for parts of western Texas, which includes Abilene and San Angelo. Two Slight Risks (2 out of 5 on the severe weather probability scale) are in effect for parts southeastern New Mexico into western and central Texas as well as eastern South Carolina, southeastern Georgia and far northeastern Florida, while much of the southern Plains, Lower Mississippi Valley, and Southeast states are in a Marginal Risk.
Thunderstorms will be capable of producing wind gusts greater than 60 mph, flooding downpours, and quarter-sized hail, though golf ball-sized hail will be possible in Texas. An isolated tornado will also be possible.
There is a Severe Thunderstorm Watch in effect for parts of western Texas and far southeastern New Mexico.
The main cities at risk for severe storms today include Charleston, S.C., Savannah, Ga., Jacksonville, Fla., and Lubbock and Midland, Texas. Other cities that could see a stronger thunderstorm include Oklahoma City, Dallas, New Orleans, Atlanta, Raleigh, N.C., and Orlando, Fla.
Severe thunderstorms will continue to develop on Friday across the Southeast states while spreading into portions of the Mid-Atlantic. The Storm Prediction Center has already issued a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms for Friday from southern Virginia to southeastern Alabama.
Make sure to know the difference between a watch and a warning should they become issued. A “watch” means that conditions are favorable for severe weather to occur and to be on alert for any rapidly changing conditions. A “warning” means that severe weather is imminent, and you should act fast to remain safe.
The best way to remain safe is to stay prepared and informed about your local weather. Have a severe weather kit packed with a battery-operated radio, water, and non-perishable food items should you be without power for long periods of time. Also, check the WeatherBug app frequently for any updates on today's severe weather. Remember, "When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!"
