Austin Braces for Severe Thunderstorms With Hail, Damaging Winds and Flood Risk

Austin and a significant portion of Central Texas face potential severe weather on Friday, as a robust cold front approaches, bringing the likelihood of intense storms that may produce hail, damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and isolated tornadoes.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has announced a severe thunderstorm watch for Travis, Williamson, Hays, and Burnet counties, effective until 8 p.m. Friday. Officials caution that the most significant impacts are expected during the afternoon and evening hours.

Severe weather conditions are anticipated, including heavy rainfall, winds reaching 60 mph, frequent lightning strikes, and hail potentially reaching the size of baseballs. As rain accumulates, flooding is becoming an increasing concern. The National Weather Service has indicated that an isolated tornado cannot be dismissed.

The National Weather Service has warned about significant weather threats, stating that large to massive hail and damaging wind gusts present the most critical risks. Hail ranging from quarter-sized (1 inch) to baseball-sized (2.75 inches) can inflict minor to moderate damage throughout the region.

The Austin Independent School District has announced the cancellation of all after-school activities, including athletics and care programs, due to the impending storm threat.

NWS Meteorologist Chris Morris has issued a warning to residents, advising them to refrain from driving through flooded streets. Officials advise against taking risks when encountering flooded roads. "Turn around, don’t drown," Morris warned that even shallow water can pose significant dangers and is often difficult to assess.

A cold front is expected to sustain storm activity through Friday night, prompting worries about potential flash flooding in low-lying and flood-prone regions.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant regarding weather conditions and to ensure they have various methods to receive alerts. Authorities recommend utilizing resources such as @NWSSanAntonio, Austin Emergency Management on social media, and WARN Central Texas alerts for timely updates.

For the latest updates on flooding, residents can visit ATXFloods.com and access the LCRA’s HydroMet system. During power outages, residents are advised to consult Austin Energy or local providers such as Bluebonnet and Pedernales Electric for updates and assistance.

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