The Storm Prediction Center has increased the threat of severe weather in East Texas. Rapidly changing atmospheric conditions have created the possibility of widespread severe weather across east and southeast Texas today (Dec. 26).

The brown shaded area indicates the area with the highest probability of severe storms today through this evening.

Unfortunately, there is also an increased risk of strong tornadoes (EF2 – EF5) in this area. This is indicated in the shaded area in the map below.

If you look at the two maps below, you’ll see that the expanded region includes cities like Houston, Pearland, Livingston, Jasper, Woodville, San Augustine, and Lufkin.

EF2 twisters have wind speeds estimated at 111+ mph, EF3 tornadoes start at 136 mph. Check out the entire Fujita range here.

Tornado Watch Details

The watch covers Angelina, Nacogdoches and the entire Deep East Texas region as well as the greater Houston Metro area.

The watch is active immediately and will last until 7 p.m. this evening. Major threats likely include some tornadoes, with some strong tornadoes possible. Isolated large hail and isolated very large hail events up to 2 inches in diameter possible.
Isolated damaging wind gusts of up to 70 miles per hour are possible.

Isolated supercells are expected to develop throughout Southeast Texas during the afternoon/evening, and storms will extend northeast into East Central Texas. The storm environment will promote the potential for multiple tornadoes, including one strong one
(EF2+) Tornado or two, along with large hail 1 to 2 inches in diameter and isolated severe gusts of 60 to 70 mph.

Take all necessary precautions and planning in the event that a tornado moves near your location or residence.

Severe thunderstorm warning

A severe thunderstorm warning is also in effect for Tyler, Longview and surrounding counties in Northeast Texas and Ark-La-Tex until 7 p.m. tonight.

Download our station app to send weather alerts to your smartphone.