Livingston, TX — May 2, 2025
Residents in the Lake Livingston area and surrounding communities are under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 8:00 PM CDT today, as a powerful storm system pushes through East and Central Texas. The National Weather Service warns of the potential for damaging hail up to two inches in diameter, wind gusts up to 70 mph, and localized flash flooding.
As of early afternoon, light rain and overcast skies covered much of Polk County, with temperatures hovering around 66°F. However, conditions are expected to rapidly deteriorate by late afternoon and evening as instability increases across the region.
“This is not a storm system to take lightly,” said a local weather official. “The environment is primed for quick-forming severe thunderstorms capable of producing large hail and very strong winds. Flash flooding is a real concern, especially in low-lying and poorly drained areas.”
The storm threat extends well beyond Polk County, with the watch area covering dozens of counties from Bexar and Travis to Montgomery and Liberty. The storms are expected to develop along a cold front moving through the state, with the highest risk of severe weather concentrated between 3 PM and 9 PM.
Local Preparations and Safety Measures
Emergency management teams in Livingston and surrounding communities are urging residents to remain weather aware throughout the evening. Sirens and emergency alerts may be activated if warnings are issued. Boaters on Lake Livingston are strongly advised to seek shelter and secure vessels ahead of the storms.
Residents are advised to:
Stay indoors and away from windows during severe storms. Avoid flooded roadways — “Turn around, don’t drown.” Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, including NOAA Weather Radios and smartphone apps.
Weekend Relief Ahead
The good news: after Friday’s severe weather threat, sunny and calmer conditions are expected to return for the weekend. Saturday may start with a lingering thunderstorm in the morning but will clear to mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 80s. Sunday looks bright and pleasant, perfect for outdoor plans.
Still, forecasters caution that another round of heavy storms may return by Tuesday.
For live updates, radar, and warnings, residents should monitor the National Weather Service and local news outlets.