A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for parts of northeast New Mexico, the Oklahoma Panhandle, and the northwestern Texas Panhandle until 9 p.m. Saturday, as a fast-moving line of thunderstorms threatens the region. The National Weather Service has warned that these storms could bring damaging winds, large hail, and the potential for brief tornadoes.
🌩️ Areas Affected by the Severe Thunderstorm Watch
The watch is in effect for Harding and Union counties in New Mexico, Cimarron County in Oklahoma, and Dallam and Hartley counties in Texas. These areas are expected to experience rapidly developing storms from the late afternoon through the evening hours. Residents in these counties should prepare for dangerous weather conditions.
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in place until 9 p.m. Saturday, but the severe weather threat could extend through the night, with the possibility of warnings being upgraded as storms intensify.
⚠️ Storm Hazards: Winds, Hail, and Possible Tornadoes
The primary threats with these storms include:
Damaging winds that could knock down trees and power lines
Large hail that could cause damage to vehicles, roofs, and crops
Brief tornadoes that may develop quickly, causing localized destruction
In addition to these hazards, localized flooding, downed trees, and scattered power outages are likely as the storms move through.
🚗 Travel Impact: Dangerous Driving Conditions
Drivers should avoid rural highways during the height of the storms, particularly U.S. 56, U.S. 64, and U.S. 87, where visibility could drop to near zero due to heavy rain, hail, and wind. Travel could be treacherous, and it’s important to monitor local weather updates and have a plan to seek shelter if necessary.
💡 Prepare for Possible Disruptions
With the risk of power outages and damaging winds, it’s important to:
Charge electronic devices to stay informed
Secure outdoor items that could be blown away or damaged by strong winds
Keep an eye on weather alerts, as warnings may be issued if the storms intensify
Weekend activities, including schools and events in Clayton, Dalhart, Boise City, and other nearby communities, may be affected by the severe weather.
🌧️ What to Do: Safety Tips
Seek shelter indoors during severe storms, especially when lightning or tornadoes are in the area.
Avoid driving during the worst of the storm. If you must travel, take extra care on rural roads where visibility is low.
Stay tuned to local weather updates and alerts. Make sure you have a weather app or battery-powered radio to receive notifications if you lose power.
📝 Final Thoughts
Severe storms are likely to affect northeast New Mexico, the Oklahoma Panhandle, and the northwestern Texas Panhandle on Saturday evening, with the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and even brief tornadoes. Residents are urged to stay alert and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions. Stay safe, charge your devices, and be ready to act quickly if warnings are issued.
