Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for North Texas

Severe Thunderstorm in North Texas

News Summary

A Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect for North Texas starting Sunday night. With the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and possible tornadoes, over 7.5 million residents in North Texas and southern Oklahoma are urged to prepare for severe weather conditions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has highlighted the risk of a derecho, which could lead to winds gusting up to 90 mph. As storm threats escalate, residents are advised to stock up on supplies and stay informed about changing weather conditions.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for North Texas!

Heads up, Texas and Oklahoma! A PDS (Particularly Dangerous Situation) Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for North Texas, starting Sunday night and extending into the early hours of Monday. This isn’t your ordinary weather watch; it comes with a strong warning indicating a high potential for damage due to a storm system that’s gearing up to create some serious chaos.

Understanding PDS Watches

So, what exactly does a PDS watch mean? It’s a big deal! These watches are rarely issued, with the NOAA Storm Prediction Center (SPC) typically handing them out just twice a year across the entire United States. They are reserved for situations where widespread destructive storms are expected, often featuring severe weather threats that go beyond the norm. Think of damaging winds, hail that’s larger than 2 inches (yikes!), and possibly even embedded tornadoes. However, the emphasis here is on damaging winds, especially those associated with a phenomenon called a derecho—which is a fast-moving thunderstorm that can deliver hurricane-force winds across vast areas.

Who is Affected?

Nearly 7.5 million people in North Texas and southern Oklahoma are on alert for these destructive storms. This includes major urban areas like the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. With the SPC forecasting the likelihood of a derecho developing, residents need to be mindful of the risks posed by powerful winds gusting up to a whopping 90 mph. To add to the concern, there is also a flood watch in place until Monday morning.

What You Need to Know

As you prepare for the looming stormy night, keep these important factors in mind:

Damaging Winds: Winds could gust between 80 and 100 mph, which can uproot trees and damage infrastructure, making it critical to stay vigilant.
Hail Potential: Be on the lookout for massive hailstorms, with some areas bracing for hailstones as large as 5 inches in diameter!
Power Outages: As of the last count, approximately 87,000 customers in North Texas are already experiencing power outages due to storm-related issues. Utility company Oncor has activated their restoration team, and they encourage customers to report any outages through multiple channels.

Storms Already Causing Trouble

This serious weather alert follows a series of deadly storms that have pummeled nearby regions, wreaking havoc in places like Mississippi and Georgia, and causing tornado damage in McAlester, Oklahoma. In fact, the severe weather threat for the South-Central U.S. has escalated to a Level 4 risk on SPC’s 5-point scale, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Staying Safe

While there is always a threat of tornadoes associated with such storms, the primary concern this time is the destructive winds. Meteorologists also point out that a mix of strong winds aloft and cooler air at lower levels could further enhance the wind gusts reaching ground level. It’s essential for all residents in the areas affected to stay informed and take safety precautions. Stock up on supplies, secure outdoor items, and have a plan in place for potential power outages.

To Wrap It Up

As you settle in for the evening, keep a close watch on weather updates and ensure that your emergency plan is ready to go. The next few hours could bring significant weather phenomena, and it’s better to be prepared. Remember, when it comes to severe weather, it’s always better to be in the know!