The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) in Norman, Oklahoma, has issued a Tornado Watch for parts of Deep East Texas, effective until 9 p.m. today. Several counties in the region, including Lufkin and Nacogdoches, are under alert as weather conditions are expected to worsen this afternoon and evening.
This means that the atmosphere is right for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms to develop. Residents are advised to stay alert and prepare for rapidly changing weather.
Counties Under Tornado Watch in Texas
The following Texas counties are included in the tornado watch area:
Angelina, Cherokee, Gregg, Hardin, Harrison, Jasper, Jefferson, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Panola, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby, Smith, and Tyler
If you live in one of these counties, stay updated through local news, weather apps, or official alerts from the National Weather Service.
Main Severe Weather Threats
The SPC has warned of the following weather dangers across the watch area:
- A few tornadoes are likely, with a chance for strong EF2+ tornadoes
- Damaging wind gusts, possibly up to 75 mph
- Large hail, possibly as big as 2 inches in diameter
- Thunderstorms with embedded supercells, which may increase tornado risk
A line of strong storms is expected to move eastward from East Texas into Louisiana, bringing these threats through the evening hours.
Current Storm Activity and Locations at Risk
Tornado-warned storms have already been reported today in parts of East Texas, including:
Buffalo, Grapeland, Palestine, and Whitehouse
More areas may receive tornado warnings as conditions develop. A Tornado Watch means that severe weather is possible, but not guaranteed. However, it’s a clear signal to be prepared and ready to take cover if a warning is issued.
Tornado Watch Area Explained
The tornado watch extends 90 miles north and south of a line from 10 miles west-southwest of Lufkin, Texas, to 25 miles northeast of Alexandria, Louisiana.
This large coverage area includes rural towns, cities, highways, and forested regions, so people traveling through these areas should also take precautions.
What Should You Do During a Tornado Watch?
Here are basic safety tips:
- Stay indoors and avoid travel unless necessary
- Keep your phone charged for emergency alerts
- Prepare a safe place in your home (basement, interior room, or bathroom with no windows)
- Monitor live weather updates from local TV, radio, or apps like NOAA Weather Radar
- Act fast if a tornado warning is issued for your area