Meteorologists predict severe storms may come to Dallas on Thursday, with a higher chance of big hail in the evening of April 18.
There is expected to be more thunderstorm activity as a cold front moves in, possibly producing large hail and tornadoes. Texas Storm Chasers posted on X today showing a weather map that puts the worst areas of the storm traveling directly over the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
The forecast says scattered severe thunderstorms will likely occur after 3 PM until a few hours after sunset in the Hill Country, Central Texas, North Texas, and the Ark-La-Tex, bringing large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain.
Large hail fell last month, with some areas getting golf ball-sized hail, damaging a solar power farm, as reported by The Dallas Express. reported by The National Severe Storms Laboratory on its website explains that hail forms when raindrops are blown into sub-freezing air drafts where they freeze. The hailstones keep growing until they cannot be held up by the storm’s updraft. High winds in storms cause larger hail. explains The National Weather Service
states that severe tornadoes are unlikely in Dallas County. The most recent update to the Service’s tornado tracking indicates just three severe tornadoes as of January 2024. Small tornadoes with ratings of F/EF0 are more common, totaling 45 such tornadoes. indicates The NWS is cautioning about possible damaging winds. The storm will persist throughout the evening, easing up in the early morning. Residents can expect relief from stormy weather on Friday before more thunderstorms arrive over the weekend.
The NWS advises that during severe hail events, people should stay away from windows and go to a small interior room. If hail starts while driving, the Service suggests stopping the vehicle and turning away from windows. It is also recommended to cover with a blanket in case the windows are broken by hail.
Meteorologists warn of severe storms potentially hitting Dallas throughout the day, with a higher chance of big hail in the evening of April 18. Thunderstorm activity is expected to increase as a cold front moves in, which could bring large hail and tornadoes.
