Severe thunderstorms sweep across southern Texas
HARLINGEN, Texas — It’s been a turbulent Thursday morning across southern Texas, especially around Harlingen, as isolated showers quickly escalated into a powerful line of thunderstorms. Residents woke up to intense thunder, frequent lightning, and downpours, with several severe thunderstorm warnings issued as the system advanced.
Peak wind gusts have surged up to 70 mph (113 km/h), while hailstones the size of quarters (about 1 inch or 2.5 cm) pelted rooftops and roadways across parts of the Rio Grande Valley. The storm’s intensity has created dangerous driving conditions, with visibility sharply reduced by the heavy rain. Headlights are essential, and drivers are strongly urged to slow down and plan for delays.
Storms shifting southeast through the morning
The main thunderstorm line continues to push southeastward, carrying the potential for more localized damage as the morning progresses. But even after this initial wave clears, rain gear will still be necessary. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are forecast to linger into the early afternoon, keeping weather conditions unstable and unpredictable.
Afternoon storm risks remain elevated
Through around 4 p.m., rain chances will hover between 30% and 40%, and forecasters warn that some storms could intensify again. There’s a risk of hail growing to golf ball size (1.75 inches or 4.4 cm) and wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph (97 km/h). While the worst of the morning activity may ease, afternoon developments still pose a threat to both property and commuters.
Local emergency services across Harlingen and surrounding areas remain on alert as the unstable air mass continues to fuel sporadic storm cells throughout the daylight hours.
