Powerful storms are set to impact the Houston area this afternoon and evening, bringing threats of hail, strong winds, and flooding, especially north of Interstate 10.
Severe storms are forecast to move through the Houston region today, posing risks of significant hail, destructive wind gusts, and localized flooding, particularly in areas north of Interstate 10. Storm chances are expected to persist into the evening hours, although the risk will decrease in areas further south.
Meteorologists have warned about the potential for another round of storms later tonight. The initial impact is expected in the northern counties, with the system gradually moving toward Harris County. A robust weather system is expected to move into southeast Texas on Friday, potentially bringing significant rainfall and raising alarms about the possibility of flooding and severe weather conditions.
Matt Lanza of Space City Weather issued a warning today, stating that nearly any storm that develops has the potential to escalate into intense or severe conditions. This prediction is based on a significant combination of Gulf moisture, atmospheric lift, and instability enhancing storm activity.
Current weather conditions pose significant risks, including localized damaging winds that may reach speeds of 40 to 50 mph, the potential for hail, and heavy rainfall that could accumulate to 3 to 4 inches in certain areas. A Stage 1 flood alert has been announced as a precautionary measure, especially for neighborhoods susceptible to flooding and situated in low-lying areas. Lanza indicated that although the risk of a tornado remains low, the possibility of an isolated tornado cannot be dismissed.
According to the storm timeline, strong to severe storms will develop around noon on Friday, moving southward through Houston until approximately 9 p.m., before diminishing near the coast.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant regarding weather conditions, secure outdoor belongings to prevent them from being lifted by strong winds, and maintain several methods for receiving severe weather alerts throughout the day.
This may, however, indicate a positive turn of events. Forecasters predict a respite from the recent stormy weather this weekend. This weekend is expected to be relatively calm, with temperatures reaching the low to mid-80s. The skies will be partly to mostly cloudy, accompanied by a minimal chance of rain.
Houston police officers are poised for 36.5% pay raises and new perks under Mayor John Whitmire's $832 million contract, even as the city faces a major budget gap.
A wave of severe thunderstorms battered Texas Friday, pelting Southeast Texas with baseball-sized hail and disrupting air travel statewide as heavy rain and damaging winds swept through major metro areas.