Just when you thought the skies were clearing, Mother Nature has other plans. Four states are bracing for a fresh round of severe thunderstorms Wednesday, bringing 60 mph winds and the threat of large hail. This follows a wild Tuesday night that saw a destructive storm with 70 mph gusts across parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas.
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas on Wednesday morning. The storm system is expected to ramp up through the afternoon, with forecasters warning of increasing convective coverage and intensity as weak mid-level impulses move eastward.
What's Behind the Storm?
According to the NWS, the setup includes moderate to very strong instability combined with elongated, nearly straight hodographs at mid and upper levels. That's meteorologist-speak for a perfect recipe for supercells capable of producing large hail. The biggest hail risk is in Texas, where isolated hailstones over 2 inches in diameter are possible. But the threat extends as far east as central and southern Alabama.
As the day progresses, thunderstorms are expected to cluster together, increasing the risk of damaging winds, particularly along the lower Mississippi Valley. The NWS has issued a Slight Risk for hail and wind threats stretching from Texas to southern Alabama.
State-by-State Breakdown
- Mississippi: Quarter-sized hail and 60 mph wind gusts are the main concerns. Residents should secure loose outdoor items and stay weather-aware.
- Alabama: Large hail is possible, especially in central and southern parts of the state.
- Texas: The highest risk for very large hail (2+ inches) and damaging winds.
- Louisiana: Damaging winds and hail could impact the region as storms develop.
This comes on the heels of a destructive storm that slammed Texas on Tuesday night, bringing 70 mph winds and hail. The region has been under a severe thunderstorm watch that affected millions across multiple states.
Safety First
For those in the danger zone, now is the time to prepare. Stay indoors, away from windows, and have a way to receive weather alerts. If you hear thunder, seek shelter immediately. The NWS emphasizes that these storms can escalate quickly, so don't wait until it's too late.
This week's severe weather pattern has been relentless. Earlier, six states were on alert for giant hail and damaging winds on Tuesday, and the threat hasn't let up. We'll keep you updated as the situation develops. Stay safe, everyone.
