A powerful storm system moving across the country is putting parts of Texas and the northern Gulf Coast on alert for severe weather this week. While the same system is dumping heavy snow in the Southwest and Rockies, it’s also creating the perfect setup for strong thunderstorms in the South.
As the storm moves east, it’s pulling in warm, humid air—fuel for intense thunderstorms. Meteorologists say this combination could bring damaging winds, large hail, and even tornadoes to parts of Texas and Louisiana.
The risk of severe storms was lower on Wednesday because of cloud cover and limited atmospheric energy. However, by Thursday, as temperatures rise and the storm gains strength, more than 20 million people from eastern Texas to the lower Mississippi Valley could be in the path of dangerous weather.
Cities like Houston, The Woodlands, Beaumont, and Pasadena in Texas, as well as Lafayette, Alexandria, and Lake Charles in Louisiana, are all in the threat zone. Experts warn that while this time of year doesn’t usually bring intense storms, a key factor—low-level wind shear—can still trigger tornadoes.
In addition to severe storms, heavy rain is another big concern. The National Weather Service has already issued Flood Watches for parts of southeastern Oklahoma, eastern and northern Arkansas, and more areas could be added as rain continues to pour. Some of these regions are still recovering from a rare and historic blizzard last week, making the threat of flooding even more worrisome.
With the storm still developing, officials urge residents to stay updated on the forecast and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
