Severe weather is hitting Abilene and surrounding areas hard this Monday afternoon, as strong thunderstorms sweep through the Big Country. With wind gusts over 50 mph, hail, and heavy rainfall, residents are being urged to stay alert and take precautions to stay safe through the late afternoon and into the evening.
50+ MPH Winds and Hail Reported Across Region
According to the National Weather Service in Abilene and San Angelo, thunderstorms moving through the area are producing damaging wind gusts strong enough to knock down tree limbs and fences. Some areas have already seen gusts above 50 mph, and these conditions may continue through at least 4 p.m..
Small hail has also been reported in several communities, and localized rainfall totals could exceed 1 inch, especially in areas where storms linger or move slowly.
Flash Flood Risk in Low-Lying Areas
With such heavy downpours, the risk of flash flooding is growing in low-lying neighborhoods, streets, and low-water crossings. Officials are warning that even short bursts of rain can create dangerous road conditions, especially in areas with poor drainage.
Travelers should:
Avoid flooded roads
Drive slowly in rain and wind
Use caution in areas with reduced visibility
Watch for sudden gusts, especially in high-profile vehicles like trucks and vans
Communities in the Storm Path
The current line of storms is moving through several key locations, including:
Abilene
Sweetwater
Stamford
Merkel
Forecasters say additional storms are expected to develop this evening farther south into the northern Concho Valley, affecting places like Sterling City and Robert Lee.
Storm Threat to Continue Into Tonight and Midweek
While today’s storms are expected to ease up by early evening, thunderstorm chances will remain through tonight and could continue into midweek. Each new round of storms may bring more heavy rain, gusty winds, and possibly isolated severe weather, depending on how conditions evolve.
Residents are advised to:
Secure outdoor items like patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations
Monitor local weather alerts and keep phones charged
Prepare for potential power outages in areas hit by strong gusts
Severe storms are making their way across the Big Country today, with Abilene and nearby towns already seeing the effects of strong winds, hail, and heavy rain. Conditions remain unstable, and more storms could follow later today and into the week. Stay indoors if possible, avoid flooded roads, and keep an eye on updated weather alerts as this system continues to move across West Texas.
