Update: Major Texas Tornado Threat

Since the earlier update, the NWS Storm Prediction Center along with AccuWeather's storm prediction model indicate a high threat of tornadoes in central Texas, including parts of the DFW Metroplex.

Recall that a 5% chance of a tornado (brown) is the threshold of a significant threat. The hatched area is where violent tornadoes are forecast to occur. The threat level in the Red River counties in Oklahoma is unchanged.

In addition, there is a major threat of large, damaging hail.

For the hail forecast, 15% (yellow) is the significant threat. In central Texas, the threat rises to a high 45% of 1" or larger hail within 25 mi. of any given point. The hatching is where 2" or large hail is forecast to occur.

So, how do you prepare, given this information?

• Keep your children and other dependents close by so they can get to shelter (preferably underground or in a safe room) quickly if a warning is issued.
• Make sure your friends and family in this region are aware of the threat. 
• If you do not have a basement or safe room but a neighbor does, perhaps it is a good time to bring them a pizza or cake and see if they would allow you to share the shelter if a warning is issued. 
• Make sure you have at least two ways of getting a warning (TV, smartphone app, radio, etc.).
• Put your car in the garage.
• Bring in lawn furniture, trampolines or anything else that can be blown about or damaged by hail. 
• Fill your car or generator with gas in case of power failures. 

Remember: The purpose of this information is not to cause worry but to allow you the time to prepare. 

I'll have updates this afternoon, please check back.