National Weather Service officials advise to take cover now
-
A National Weather Service graphic shows a tornado watch and flood watch issued in the region this evening.
A tornado warning and flash flood warning have been issued for Lampasas County Wednesday evening.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning in effect for Lampasas and surrounding counties from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. A flash flood warning was also issued, remaining effective until 8 p.m. tonight.
“At 5:34 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 13 miles south of Evant, or 16 miles north of Lampasas, moving east at 40 mph,” NWS officials said.
Hazards may include tornados and quarter-sized hail.
“Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely,” meteorologists said.
This tornadic thunderstorm will remain over mainly rural areas of southwestern Coryell and central Lampasas Counties, including the following locations: Adamsville, Topsey, Pidcoke, Izoro, and Rumley.
Meteorologists advised residents to “Take cover now! Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris.”
In addition to tornadic activity, severe storm hazards will also be present.
“Prepare immediately for large hail and deadly cloud to ground lightning. Seek shelter inside a well-built structure. Stay away from windows.”
Flash flood warning
In the flash flood warning that was issued, NWS officials said rainfall is expected to produce flash flooding in the area as well.
“Between 1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly,” officials said.
Some locations that will experience flash flooding include: Copperas Cove, Gatesville, McGregor, Fort Cavazos, Kempner, Evant, Fort Gates, Belton Lake, Mother Neff State Park, Lometa, Oglesby, South Mountain, Whitson, Osage, Arnett, Harbin, King, Pidcoke, Pearl and Topsey.
“Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads,” NWS officials said.
Both warnings were elevated from a tornado watch, flash flooding watch, and severe weather statement issued earlier this afternoon.