Austin Weather Alert: Severe Storms, Hail & Flash Flood Watch—Latest Forecast and Safety Tips

Central Texans awoke to muggy 80 °F air and rumbling skies as a slow-moving cold front triggered heavy early-morning thunderstorms across Austin, bringing brief downpours and 65 % rain odds through the commute. By late morning, showers become spotty, but abundant Gulf moisture holds humidity near 75 % and keeps “feels-like” values in the upper 80s. Mid-Week Storm Outlook • Wednesday: Storms redevelop after 3 p.m., especially along I-35. Localized totals could top 1 inch, and a few cells may reach severe limits with 50 mph gusts and small hail. • Thursday: Daytime heating pushes highs to 87 °F; scattered tropical-style downpours linger, with lightning a concern for outdoor workers. • Friday: Behind the boundary, drier north-northeast breezes drop afternoon temps to the lower 80s and cut rain chances below 30 %. Heat Builds for the Weekend High pressure strengthens Saturday through Monday, pushing daytime highs to 88-92 °F and overnight lows into the mid-70s. Humidity will drive heat-index readings near the century mark, signaling the unofficial start of Central Texas summer. Plan for extra water breaks if you’re hitting Zilker Park or the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Lake & River Impacts Early-week rainfall could create minor rises on Barton Creek and the Colorado River, but current projections keep levels below flood stage. Boaters on Lake Travis should still watch for floating debris and brief gusts tied to passing storms. Outdoor Event Planner • ACL Radio’s Blues on the Green (Thursday): Pack a poncho and check radar after 4 p.m.—intermittent showers remain possible. • Pecan Street Festival (Saturday): Mostly cloudy and 82 °F by midday; bring sunscreen and stay hydrated. • Memorial Day lake outings: UV index climbs to “Very High” under sunnier skies—reapply SPF 30+ every two hours. Safety & Travel Tips 1. Enable weather alerts on your smartphone for real-time lightning warnings. 2. Never drive across a water-covered low water crossing—“Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” 3. Expect brief flight delays at Austin-Bergstrom during Wednesday’s strongest storms; pack patience and check airline apps. Keyword roundup: Austin weather forecast, Austin TX thunderstorms, Central Texas heat, I-35 storm timing, weekend temperatures, Lake Travis conditions, Austin radar update.