Powerful Thunderstorms Disrupt Texas and Louisiana, Delaying Holiday Travel

Storm 1 Dashing News

Severe thunderstorms have caused significant disruptions in parts of Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas, impacting holiday travel and prompting warnings from authorities. Here’s what you need to know:


Severe Weather Threatens Gulf Region

Early Friday, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued severe weather alerts across Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas. A storm system originating in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to bring:

  • High winds: Gusts reaching 60 to 80 mph (96 to 128 kph).

  • Hail: With diameters of 1 inch (2.5 cm) or greater.

  • Tornadoes: Posing serious risks to affected areas.

Current Situation

  • The NWS office in Lake Charles, Louisiana, reported ongoing heavy showers and thunderstorms across Louisiana and the Gulf waters late Thursday night. Thankfully, southeast Texas (SETX) was declared clear for the night.

  • A tornado warning was issued Thursday afternoon northeast of Houston, though no immediate damage was reported.


Flight Delays and Cancellations

The storm’s impact has been felt heavily in air travel:

  • Over 100 flight delays and numerous cancellations occurred at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

  • Dallas Love Field and George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston also reported delays and cancellations, according to FlightAware, a flight tracking platform.


Emergency Measures Activated

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has mobilised state emergency resources to address the escalating weather threat. In a statement, he urged travellers to:

  • Monitor road conditions frequently.

  • Develop an emergency plan.

  • Follow guidance from state and local officials.

Gov. Abbott highlighted the importance of staying vigilant as Texans and out-of-state visitors embark on post-Christmas travels.


High-Risk Areas Identified

Meteorologist Brian Hurley of the NWS Weather Prediction Center provided a detailed outlook:

  • The greatest risk zone spans from eastern Texas to southern Arkansas and northern Louisiana, including areas between Houston and Dallas.

  • The main threats include:

    • High winds.

    • Large hail.

    • Tornadoes.

Night-Time Dangers

  • The storms are expected to intensify after nightfall, posing heightened risks for holiday travellers.

  • “People may not be as weather aware during nighttime storms,” Hurley cautioned, emphasising the importance of staying alert.


Safety Tips for Travellers

To minimise risks, travellers are advised to:

  • Stay informed: Regularly check weather updates and alerts.

  • Prepare an emergency kit: Include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.

  • Drive cautiously: Avoid flooded roads and reduce speed during heavy rain.

  • Follow evacuation orders: If advised, move to safety immediately.


Sources

Stay safe and plan accordingly to avoid unnecessary risks during this severe weather event.

 

 

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