Severe weather is making its way through the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area and up to Palestine on Sunday afternoon, bringing with it a combination of hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain. The National Weather Service has issued a weather alert, warning that these dangerous conditions could affect travel and cause property damage. The storm system is expected to intensify after 2 PM, so residents should stay prepared and informed.
When and Where to Expect Severe Storms
The storm system will begin affecting the Dallas-Fort Worth area after 2 PM on Sunday and will extend through to Palestine and surrounding areas as it progresses. These storms will be capable of producing damaging winds and hail as large as golf ball-sized in some places.
Residents of Fort Worth, Arlington, Dallas, and Palestine are especially at risk, with the heaviest weather expected between 2 PM and 8 PM. These areas should be on high alert for fast-developing storms that could cause widespread disruptions.
What to Expect: Hail, Winds, and Flash Flooding Risk
The most significant threats will come from hail and strong winds. Hail is expected to range from pea-sized to golf-ball-sized, which could damage cars, homes, and crops. Anyone with outdoor furniture, vehicles, or other possessions should take immediate action to protect them before the storms arrive.
In addition to hail, winds could gust up to 60 mph, strong enough to uproot trees, cause power outages, and damage roofs. These winds could also make driving dangerous, especially for high-profile vehicles like trucks, which are more vulnerable to crosswinds. It’s advised to stay off the roads as much as possible during the height of the storm.
The storms will also bring heavy rain, and localized flash flooding could occur in areas with poor drainage or low-lying regions. Drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution when navigating through heavy rainfall and should avoid flooded areas entirely.
Stay Safe During the Severe Weather
As the storm moves through the region, residents should take steps to ensure their safety:
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Secure loose outdoor objects that could become projectiles in high winds. Bring in patio furniture, umbrellas, or anything that might blow away.
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Keep informed: Stay updated on the latest weather developments using a weather app, local news stations, or a battery-powered radio.
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Seek shelter indoors: If the storm intensifies, stay inside and avoid windows. Seek a safe place away from glass and exterior walls.
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Limit travel: If you must drive, slow down and avoid flooded roads. If conditions worsen, pull over to a safe area and wait for the storm to pass.
The Storm’s Path and Timeline
The storms will likely begin around 2 PM on Sunday and will move eastward, impacting Palestine and nearby areas by late afternoon. The severe weather should taper off by Sunday night, with the storms clearing out by Monday morning. While conditions will improve by then, some rain could linger overnight.
What’s Next for the Weather in DFW?
By Monday, milder conditions are expected to return to the region, although some rain may persist through the morning hours. The severe weather threat will have largely dissipated, but residents should remain vigilant until the all-clear is given.
