Latest news with #ZackShields
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Austin weather: Tornado watch in place for many Central Texas counties
The Brief Large complex of storms expected to form in Hill Country Area under enhanced risk of severe storms Look out for very large hail, damaging winds, lots of lightning and even isolated tornadoes possible AUSTIN, Texas - So far we haven't seen much rain during this Memorial Day Weekend. This will change today and tonight. A tornado watch is in effect until 10 p.m. for many Texas counties, including these in Central Texas: Bexar Blanco Burnet Comal Gillespie Hays Llano Mason San Saba Travis Below is a live look at the radar for today/tonight's weather event: The backstory Central Texas is under an enhanced risk for severe storms. We will have round one this morning and then round two happens this evening. We are expecting a large complex of storms to form in the Hill Country along an outflow boundary left behind from this morning's storms. The area is under a slight to enhanced risk of severe storms with the highest threat over the Hill Country. Timeline The storms are expected to hit the Hill Country between 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Austin metro area can expect storms between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. tonight. The Eastern counties will most likely see the storms between 9 p.m. and midnight. Why you should care Look out for very large hail, damaging winds, lots of lightning and even isolated tornadoes can't be ruled out. Quarter to baseball-sized hail is possible from Austin to the Hill Country. There is also the possibility of straight-line winds of 58 mph or more. Flooding is expected to be mostly localized with street flooding the biggest concern. What you can do If you're out and about, it will be very important to pay close attention to the weather today. Stay weather aware and track your local forecast for the Austin area quickly with the free FOX 7 WAPP. The design gives you radar, hourly, and 7-day weather information just by scrolling. Our weather alerts will warn you early and help you stay safe during storms. The Source Information from meteorologist Zack Shields.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Austin weather: City preparing for triple-digit heat this week
The Brief Central Texas is expected to get triple-digit temperatures this week The City of Austin is preparing for this incoming heat wave May 14 could be the hottest May afternoon ever in Austin AUSTIN, Texas - With triple-digit temperatures expected this week, Austinites and city departments are preparing for the heat. The backstory "Each day we're going to be breaking record highs starting on Tuesday, May 13, and that stretch could last all the way through the weekend. If we hit 103 or 104 on Wednesday, that'll be the hottest May afternoon ever for Austin," Zack Shields, FOX 7 meteorologist said. He says this level of heat this early in the year comes from a combination of drought and wind. "The ground is very dry, even though we've had some recent rains, then you factor in a huge dome of high pressure that's going to be pushing down on us," he said. "The wind coming in from the Southwest, that's a down-sloping wind. It compresses the air, heats it up even more to record levels." Why you should care The Austin Fire Department says they expect to see a spike in heat-related calls. "We're preparing for the hot summer once again," Division Chief Mark Bridges said. First responders recommend you stay hydrated and try to avoid strenuous activity in the afternoon. Also, know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. "If you're out, and you're not feeling right, you start sweating profusely, your pulse rate gets high, cool and clammy skin, that means you need to stop what you're doing, hydrate and get out of the heat," Bridges said. Signs of heat stroke include no sweating, hot skin, and loss of consciousness. If you see that, call 911. Big picture view The Homeless Strategy Office has notified the more than 3,500 people who have signed up for its text alert system, warning them of the heat and informing them where they can cool off. Branches of Austin Public Library and Park and Recreation's rec centers can be used as cooling centers during operating hours. Service animals are allowed. For a list of cooling centers, click here. With the heat, also beware of wildfire danger. If you're grilling, be careful. Don't have chains dragging from vehicles. "The hotter it gets and the longer it stays that way, the increased risk of wildfire comes about again, so we want to encourage everyone to just be responsible," Bridges said. Bridges also recommends getting your AC checked before the high temperatures arrive. AFD also has a free Structural Ignition Zone Evaluation program, where firefighters can evaluate your property to reduce your wildfire risk. Local perspective Some Austinites are ready for the heat. "Absolutely, can't wait, going on the lake paddleboarding all week," John Turman said. Others are making some changes to their routine, like Ethan Fitzpatrick and his dog. "That's why we're out here early right now. We already got the 89-degree heat coming in today, so we're trying to become a morning person out here and sort of transition," Fitzpatrick said. The Source Information from interviews conducted by FOX 7 Austin's Angela Shen
