EAST TEXAS (KLTV/KTRE) – A significant storm system will impact East Texas this weekend and another next week, bringing the potential for severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. Two separate periods of concern have been identified as First Alert Weather Days: tonight through Saturday, and again on Tuesday and Wednesday.
A strong storm system moving from the west will create an environment favorable for severe thunderstorm development across East Texas. Scattered severe thunderstorms are expected to develop this evening and continue through Saturday. The primary threats include strong to damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes. While the strongest storm potential may remain northwest of the region initially, thunderstorms will gradually spread southeastward into East Texas overnight and through Saturday morning.
Heavy rainfall is expected to accompany this system. Widespread rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches or greater are anticipated across East Texas, with locally heavier amounts possible from slow-moving storms. This much-needed moisture will help address ongoing drought conditions in the region, though any heavy downpours could produce flooding, particularly in areas that receive the heaviest rainfall in a short period.
The greatest threat for severe weather will be this evening through Saturday morning, particularly northwest of Interstate 30. As the day progresses Saturday, storm intensity should gradually decrease, though isolated strong storms remain possible through the afternoon and evening hours.
A second storm weather system will approach East Texas by midweek. A system currently over the southwestern United States will move eastward, combining with another system from the north to create favorable conditions for renewed severe thunderstorm development.
This setup will produce a broad area of severe weather potential from the southern Plains into the Lower Mississippi Valley. East Texas will be positioned in an area where warm, moist air collides with stronger upper-level winds, creating an unstable atmosphere. The primary threats during this period will include severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the potential for isolated tornadoes.
Heavy rainfall is again expected with this system, which could further saturate the region and increase flooding concerns where storms move slowly.
Monitor KLTV and KTRE updates closely through the weekend. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings; including through television, mobile alerts, and weather radio. Review your severe weather safety plan, know where to take shelter, and keep emergency supplies accessible.
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