CENTRAL TEXAS – The National Weather Service has declared Monday a First Alert Weather Day as forecasters warn of two rounds of storms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes, primarily in areas east of Interstate 35.
Round One: Early Morning Thunderstorms
The first line of storms will move in from the west overnight, impacting parts of San Saba, Mills, and neighboring counties by early Monday morning.
While the system is expected to weaken as it moves east, brief heavy rain, thunder, and small hail could accompany the initial wave.
Forecasters note that this line will lose intensity before reaching the I-35 corridor by mid-morning, with hail potential near zero by the time it arrives.
Round Two: Afternoon Severe Threat
After a brief lull, atmospheric conditions will become unstable in the early afternoon, particularly along and behind a north-moving warm front.
Meteorologists expect individual thunderstorms to redevelop in this zone of warm, moist, and unstable air, which could evolve into supercells.
These storms may produce:
- Large hail up to one inch or more in diameter
- Strong wind gusts exceeding 60 mph
- Isolated tornadoes in localized areas
The greatest risk remains east of I-35, including portions of Bell, Falls, Limestone, and Robertson counties, though activity will be scattered and unpredictable.
Timing and Outlook
Model projections vary, but forecasters believe the second round of storms will form by early afternoon and dissipate by evening, as cooler, stable air pushes in from the west.
By dinnertime, the severe threat should shift into East Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas.
Safety Precautions
Residents should stay alert throughout the day and take the following precautions:
- Monitor weather alerts via mobile apps and local news updates.
- Seek shelter indoors during thunder or lightning.
- Avoid travel in heavy rain or hail.
- Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, chargers, and water in case of power outages.
The Bottom Line
While the morning storms will bring heavy rain and thunder, the afternoon system poses the main severe threat, especially east of the I-35 corridor.
Although widespread tornadoes are not expected, any storm that forms could become dangerous, prompting short-notice warnings.
Stay tuned to HonkNews.com for continuous weather updates, radar tracking, and safety information as Monday’s severe weather event unfolds.