Intense storms are sweeping through the Southern states, posing a serious threat of long-track tornadoes that could cause widespread devastation. Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama are on high alert with a level 4 out of 5 severe weather warning from the Storm Prediction Center. Coastal Texas has already been hit by a powerful tornado, while southeast Arkansas experienced baseball-sized hail that shattered car windows. The region is still recovering from previous tornadoes that downed trees and scattered debris the day before.
As this volatile system moves eastward, more power outages and damage are anticipated. Here are the latest updates on the storm system:
3:53 p.m. ET – Avoid Sheltering Under Overpasses
When seeking shelter during severe weather, it is recommended to find a sturdy building like a store or gas station rather than taking cover under an overpass. Winds can intensify in these areas and pose a risk of serious injury. Parking under an overpass can also prevent others behind you from accessing shelter.
3:20 p.m. ET – Particularly Dangerous Situation
The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Particularly Dangerous Situation Tornado Watch due to an elevated risk of intense and life-threatening tornadoes. Communities in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas are advised to prepare promptly for potential severe weather conditions.
2:31 p.m. ET – Search and Rescue Efforts Underway
Emergency crews are conducting search and rescue operations in Porter Heights, Texas, following significant damage caused by a confirmed tornado. Residents are urged to avoid damaged areas as recovery operations continue.
2:23 p.m. ET – Property Damage in Texas
A radar-confirmed tornado caused damage near Liverpool and Alvin, Texas, with reports of a school being affected in Alvin. Multiple homes were destroyed in Liverpool, with emergency services assessing the extent of the damage and providing assistance to affected residents.
1:40 p.m. ET – Tornado Sightings in Texas
A powerful storm system passed through residential areas outside of Houston, triggering at least one tornado as it moved from Katy through Waller, Porter Heights, and Splendora. Significant damage was reported in Waller, where a mobile home park was overturned, and in Porter Heights, where roofs were torn off homes and the fire department suffered damage.
Stay informed with further updates on weather conditions and safety tips for tornadoes on weather.com.
“Essential Tips for Surviving Severe Weather Events
In times of severe weather, being prepared can make a life-saving difference. Here are some critical tips to help you stay safe during dangerous weather conditions:
1. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with the latest weather forecasts and alerts. Listen to local news stations, follow weather reports on the radio, television, or online, and consider investing in a weather radio for instant updates.
2. Create a Plan: Develop a detailed emergency plan for your household. Identify safe spots in your home for different types of weather emergencies and establish communication protocols with family members in case of separation.
3. Stock Up on Supplies: Make sure you have essential supplies on hand, such as non-perishable food, water, a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and necessary medications. Keep these items easily accessible in case of a power outage or evacuation.
4. Secure Your Home: Take precautions to protect your property from severe weather damage. Trim trees and bushes, secure loose outdoor items, reinforce windows and doors, and consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant glass.
5. Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes in your area and have a plan in place in case you need to evacuate quickly. Keep important documents, such as identification, insurance policies, and medical records, in a waterproof container that you can grab on the go.
6. Stay Indoors: During severe weather events, it is safest to stay indoors. Avoid going outside unless absolutely necessary, and seek shelter in a sturdy building away from windows and doors.
7. Monitor Alerts: Pay close attention to weather alerts and warnings issued by local authorities. Take immediate action if a tornado warning or severe thunderstorm alert is issued for your area.
8. Stay Connected: Keep your phone charged and stay connected with loved ones during severe weather events. Use text messages or social media to communicate, as phone lines may be overwhelmed during emergencies.
9. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Reach out to elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, or those who may need assistance during severe weather. Offer support and help them make necessary preparations to stay safe.
10. After the Storm: Be cautious when venturing outside after a severe weather event. Watch out for downed power lines, debris, and flooded areas. Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they may be deeper or faster-moving than they appear.
By following these essential tips and staying prepared, you can increase your chances of staying safe during severe weather events. Remember, it is always better to be over-prepared than caught off-guard when disaster strikes.”
