Powerful thunderstorms are rolling into North Texas this evening, bringing the threat of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas. The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm watches and tornado watches for much of the region until midnight.
Storms Intensifying as They Move East
As of 9:45 PM, the storms are intensifying as they track eastward across the area. Golf ball to baseball-sized hail has already been reported in Denton and Collin counties, shattering windows and damaging vehicles.
A tornado was confirmed near the University of North Texas campus in Frisco, causing minor damage.
“It was like a heavy downpour of golf balls coming down,” said Geoff Gray, a homeowner in Little Elm. “Never been through anything like it before. It was coming down real heavy, it was real loud in the house.
Tornado Threat Continues Overnight
The tornado threat is expected to persist into the overnight hours as a potent line of storms moves in from the northwest around midnight. Areas north of Interstate 20 face the greatest risk.
“Make your plans now for where you will seek shelter if a storm heads your way, and have multiple ways of receiving warning information,” advised CBS 11 meteorologist Erin Moran. “The main threat this evening is large hail to the size of golf balls and even softballs. Tornadoes are also possible this evening and into Tuesday morning.
Flooding Also a Concern
In addition to the severe weather hazards, heavy rainfall may lead to localized flooding. A flood watch is in effect for counties east of Dallas where 1-3 inches of rain could fall.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways. “Remember to never drive through water-covered roadways, as you don’t know how deep the water is and you could put yourself in a life-threatening situation,” Moran said.
Staying Safe and Informed
With such dangerous conditions expected, officials are urging North Texans to stay weather aware and be prepared to seek shelter immediately if warnings are issued for their area.
“With the potential for dangerous conditions, including flash flooding and tornadoes, Texans in at-risk communities are urged to remain weather-aware and heed the guidance of state and local officials to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Texas Governor Greg Abbott in a statement.
Residents should ensure they have multiple ways of receiving alerts, including weather radios, local media, and mobile phone alerts. It’s also important to know where to seek shelter, ideally in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.
“The most important thing a person can do is take responsibility for his or her own safety,” notes the University of North Texas Emergency Management department. “Identify the nearest shelter areas. Shelter areas are designated for every building on campus.
“As the storms continue to impact the region, stay with CBS 11 for the latest severe weather coverage and alerts. Our First Alert weather team will be tracking the storms through the night to keep you informed and safe.
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