DALLAS (AP) — Parts of Texas, Louisiana and Arkansas were under severe weather watches early Friday as the National Weather Service predicted a storm system in the Gulf of Mexico could bring high winds, hail and possible tornadoes to the region.
“Heavy showers and thunderstorms continue to race across Louisiana and the Gulf waters at this time, with SETX in the clear for the rest of tonight. Please stay safe all,” the weather service’s office in Lake Charles, Louisiana, posted on the social platform X shortly after 11 p.m. Thursday.
The weather service issued a tornado warning late that afternoon for parts of Texas northeast of Houston, meaning weather radar indicated there was a tornado in the area. There were no immediate reports of damage.
After a line of thunderstorms started moving across parts of Texas, more than 100 flights were delayed and dozens more canceled at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Delays and thunderstorm-related cancellations also were reported at Dallas’ Love Field and George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, according to FlightAware, an aviation company that tracks flights across the world.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott activated state emergency response resources because of the increased severe weather threat.
“As Texans and out-of-state visitors begin traveling after the Christmas holiday, it’s crucial that everyone regularly monitor road conditions, make an emergency plan and heed the guidance of state and local officials,” Abbott said in a statement.
The greatest weather risk was forecast for a stretch of Texas east of Dallas, between Houston and portions of southern Arkansas and western and northern Louisiana, said Brian Hurley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center.
“There does look like the possibility of one or a few tornadoes with this risk, but the main risk will be with high winds and hail,” Hurley said, adding that he expected wind gusts generally between 60 and 80 mph (96 to 128 kph), and hail 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) in diameter or greater.
The storms were likely to push into southern Arkansas and western and northern Louisiana after nightfall, posing a potentially dangerous situation for holiday travelers, Hurley said.
“People can’t see a whole lot and may not be as weather aware,” he said.
With the holiday season in full swing, many travelers are facing delays and disruptions as powerful thunderstorms threaten Texas and Louisiana. The severe weather is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and possibly even tornadoes to the region, making travel conditions hazardous.
Airports in cities such as Dallas, Houston, and New Orleans are already experiencing flight cancellations and delays, leaving many passengers stranded and frustrated. Roadways are also expected to be affected, with the potential for flooding and dangerous driving conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued severe weather alerts for the area, urging residents and travelers to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel until the storms pass. With Christmas just days away, many are left wondering if they will make it to their destinations in time for the holiday.
As we navigate through these challenging weather conditions, it is important to prioritize safety and be prepared for potential delays. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay patient as we weather this storm together.
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