Austinites should brace themselves for a bout of severe weather, as meteorologists predict an active 24-hour period with two rounds of potent storms set to drench the city. According to the National Weather Service, today's weather could bring showers and thunderstorms after 4 pm, with some developing into severe conditions. Highs are expected to linger near 84 degrees, while a southeast wind could pack gusts as high as 20 mph. The likelihood of precipitation stands at 60%, with new rainfall amounts anticipated between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, possibly escalating in thunderstorms.
Isolated to scattered strong to severe storms are forecast for this afternoon through tonight. Large hail and damaging winds are the main threats. Can't ruled out a tornado or two. Locally heavy rain could lead to flooding. #txwx pic.twitter.com/1YnshMCba9
— NWS Austin/San Antonio (@NWSSanAntonio) May 1, 2024
As the night wears on, the city should prepare for continued turbulent weather. Showers and thunderstorms are highly likely, mainly occurring before 4 am, and could lead to severe and copious rainfall. Southeast winds are forecasted to maintain a steady 10 to 15 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 20 mph. The chance of precipitation overnight is a robust 70%, with new rainfall amounts possibly ranging between 1 and 2 inches.
Thursday's outlook isn't setting up to be much drier, with a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, potentially severe. The cloud cover persists, and temperatures are expected to hit a high near 84, with southeast breezes blowing at a lighter 5 to 10 mph.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Austin residents won't be completely free from the grip of these unsettled weather patterns. Although the rain won't be a constant companion, the chance of showers and thunderstorms hovers at 20% from Friday night through until Sunday. Amidst the mostly cloudy conditions, the highs across Saturday and Sunday are forecasted to climb near 85 degrees, with winds gusting as high as 30 mph. And if you're wishing for warmer weather, stick tight - because temperatures could reach the low 90s by next Tuesday.
