East Texas Storms May Turn Severe Friday as Tornado-Capable Supercells Track Into Louisiana and Mississippi After Dark
TEXAS — A developing cluster of storms in East Texas on Friday is expected to be the primary severe weather threat of the day, with forecasters warning that some storms could organize into tornado-capable supercells before tracking east into Louisiana and Mississippi later Friday night. The storms are expected to intensify during the afternoon and evening hours, with impacts expanding eastward after sunset — a time that historically increases tornado risk due to reduced visibility and sleeping populations.
Supercell Storms Possible During Peak Afternoon and Evening Hours
Meteorologists say storms developing across East Texas between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. may take on supercell characteristics, which are capable of producing tornadoes, large hail, and damaging wind gusts. These storms are expected to form in a favorable atmospheric environment where warm, unstable air collides with an approaching disturbance, allowing individual storm cells to rotate and strengthen.
Storms Expected to Move Into Louisiana and Mississippi After Dark
As storms progress eastward, the severe weather threat will shift into Louisiana and eventually Mississippi, mainly after dark. While not all areas will experience severe weather, conditions will be supportive of isolated tornado development, especially within stronger storm cells. Overnight tornado threats are particularly dangerous because people are less likely to receive warnings in time if they are asleep.
Damaging Winds and Hail Also a Concern
In addition to tornado potential, forecasters warn that hail and damaging straight-line winds will be possible with the strongest storms. Wind gusts could lead to downed trees, power outages, and structural damage, particularly in areas that experience repeated rounds of storms. Residents across the risk zone are encouraged to secure loose outdoor items and remain weather-aware throughout the evening.
Preparedness Urged Ahead of Evening Storms
Emergency officials recommend residents across East Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, including mobile phone notifications and weather radios. Relying solely on outdoor sirens is discouraged, especially overnight.
While severe weather may remain scattered, forecasters stress that any storm that becomes severe could do so quickly, leaving little time to react. Have you experienced overnight severe storms before? Share how you prepare and stay informed during nighttime weather threats, and continue following updates from SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
