As of Tuesday morning, strong thunderstorms are developing over West Texas. A system of low pressure is moving eastward, bringing storms into South-Central Texas later in the day. Expect thunderstorms to reach the San Antonio area after 8 p.m.
If you’re heading to an outdoor Spurs watch party for Game 5 of the Western Conference Finals, it’s wise to leave before halftime or have a backup plan to find shelter when the storms hit.
A flood watch will be in effect for the Hill Country and the I-35 corridor, including San Antonio, starting at 4 p.m. This warning lasts until early Wednesday morning. Rainfall between 1 to 3 inches is likely, with some areas possibly receiving up to 5 inches.
The storms come with a flash flood risk, and the strongest cells might produce hail, damaging winds, and frequent lightning. Consider staying indoors to watch the game on TV instead. Here’s what to expect:
Afternoon (Noon to 5 p.m.): Expect mostly dry weather in San Antonio. Partly sunny skies will bring temperatures into the mid-80s. There’s a slight chance for an isolated shower, around 20%.
Evening (5 to 8 p.m.): Strong thunderstorms are predicted across the Texas Hill Country, affecting areas like Fredericksburg and Kerrville. Rain chances in San Antonio will remain low during this time.
Tuesday Night (8 p.m. to Midnight): Thunderstorms should reach western Bexar County by 8 p.m. and downtown San Antonio by around 9 p.m. The storms may continue until midnight before tapering off.
The storm risk in San Antonio is categorized as level 1 out of 5, meaning only a few storms might produce large hail or damaging winds. However, areas west of the city, like Kerrville and Hondo, face a higher risk, rated at level 2.
Flooding: The primary threat is urban flooding, with rainfall possibly exceeding 2 inches per hour. Travel might be hazardous on local roads after 10 p.m.
Fortunately, these storms are expected to move out quickly, which should minimize flooding in rivers and streams.
Recent Insights
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), extreme weather events like these are becoming more common due to climate change. A recent report highlighted that Texas experienced a 30% increase in heavy rainfall events over the past decade.
Social media is buzzing with reactions to the weather forecast, with some users sharing safety tips while others express concern over storm damage. Staying informed and prepared is key, especially during events like this.
In times of severe weather, local authorities encourage community vigilance. Having a plan and staying updated can make all the difference. For official weather updates, consult the National Weather Service.
