Lake Livingston, TX – Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Residents around the Lake Livingston area are under a heightened state of alert today as the National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch in effect until 6:00 PM CDT. The watch includes San Jacinto, Polk, and surrounding counties, as a powerful storm system moves through southeast Texas.
Forecasters warn that conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which may produce tornadoes, golf ball-sized hail, and damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph. The most intense storms are expected to develop by mid to late afternoon and continue into the evening hours.
In addition to the tornado threat, the area is facing a Flood Watch due to the risk of excessive rainfall. Forecast models suggest widespread rainfall totals between 1 to 3 inches, with localized areas receiving up to 5 inches or more. These rains will fall on already saturated ground, significantly increasing the chance of flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas near creeks, rivers, and poorly drained roads.
The Trinity River at Riverside is already experiencing minor flooding, and a River Flood Warning remains in effect for portions of Polk, San Jacinto, Trinity, and Walker counties.
This Evening and Tonight:
A second round of storms is expected to redevelop overnight, potentially bringing another 2 to 4 inches of rainfall to parts of the region. This prolonged period of rainfall could lead to rapidly rising water levels in streams and urban areas, creating dangerous travel conditions.
Looking Ahead:
Wednesday: Continued threat of thunderstorms with highs near 85°F. Thursday–Friday: A slight decrease in storm activity, but isolated thunderstorms remain possible. Saturday–Monday: A welcome change, with drier and sunnier weather expected to return for the weekend.
Public Safety Officials Urge Caution:
Authorities are urging residents to stay weather-aware throughout the day and into the night. Outdoor plans should be reconsidered, and emergency kits should be ready in case of power outages or the need to take shelter quickly.
“Please avoid driving through flooded roadways,” said a spokesperson for San Jacinto County Emergency Management. “Turn around, don’t drown. One misjudged decision can turn into a life-threatening situation.”
Stay tuned to local alerts and check back here for updates as conditions evolve.