WEATHER
Severe storm and tornado alert in Texas: These are the affected areas today, May 16
The NWS has issued a warning for severe thunderstorms as well as tornadoes in Texas. Here are the latest updates on which areas have been affected.
The state of Texas continues to experience severe weather, as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning, as well as a tornado watch in several parts of the region.
According to the NWS, severe thunderstorms are defined as “storms that are capable of producing hail of one inch or more or wind gusts greater than 58 mph.” Storms also produce dangerous tornadoes, lightning, and flash flooding.
Which areas of Texas are under warning for severe storms?
The NWS has reported that there is a high risk (Level 4 of 4) of excessive rain for parts of East Texas this Thursday. In addition, the torrential rains are expected to cause flash flooding. For that reason, some parts of the state are also under a flood watch and warning.
Areas of Texas under a severe storm watch, according to the NWS, include: Andrews, TX; Borden, TX; Crane, TX; Culberson, TX; Dawson, TX; Ector, TX; Gaines, TX; Glasscock, TX; Howard, TX; Loving, TX; Martin, TX; Midland, TX; Mitchell, TX; Reagan, TX; Reeves, TX; Scurry, TX; Upton, TX; Ward, TX and Winkler, TX.
Other counties under a severe storm warning areCoke, TX; Crockett, TX; Fisher, TX; Irion, TX; Nolan, TX; Sterling, TX; Brown, TX; Callahan, TX; Coleman, TX; Concho, TX; Kimble, TX; McCulloch, TX; Mason, TX; Menard, TX; Runnels, TX; San Saba, TX; Schleicher, TX; Sutton, TX; Taylor, TX and Tom Green, TX.
In a severe storm, it is advised to move to a safe location. Damaging wind or hail is possible, so stay away from windows or doors with glass panels. It is also advisable to take your pets with you if you seek refuge.
These areas of Texas are under a tornado warning
Elsewhere, a Tornado Watch has been issued for parts of Louisiana and Texas until 10:00 p.m. m. CT.
According to the National Weather Service, areas under tornado warning include: Austin, TX; Brazoria, TX; Brazos, TX; Burleson, TX; Chambers, TX; Colorado, TX; Fort Bend, TX; Galveston, TX; Grimes, TX; Harris, TX; Houston, TX; Liberty, TX; Madison, TX; Montgomery, TX; Polk, TX; San Jacinto, TX; Trinity, TX; Walker, TX; Waller, TX; Washington, TX and Wharton, TX.
If you are under a tornado warning, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows. Don't forget your pets.
For more information on alerts of any type, in effect in Texas, consult the website of the National Weather Service (NWS) or its social media platforms.