Severe storms predicted Friday, Saturday in the Highland Lakes

From staff reports

The National Weather Service is reporting with increasing confidence that areas of Burnet County could receive between 2-4 inches of rain and possibly up to golfball-sized hail from a strong to severe storm expected to hit the Hill Country on Friday, May 15.

A severe storm and flooding threat has been issued for 7 p.m. Friday through 3 a.m. Saturday as locally heavy rainfall is possible across South Central Texas with dangerous flash flooding and river flooding possible. Rainfall amounts and rates could lead to flash flooding of some low water crossings, prompting road closures and potential high water rescues. Flooding may occur at other poor drainage and urban areas.

Isolated severe storms capable of producing large hail and damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 mph are possible as well. The greatest threat is over areas that already received heavy rainfall the past few days, as well as along and east of I-35.

Frequent cloud to ground lightning strikes possible. “Bolts from the blue” can strike 10-15 miles away from where it is actually raining.

Find stories like this and more local, comprehensive news reports in the Friday, May 15 issue of The Highlander, the newspaper of record for the Highland Lakes. To offer a news tip or comment, email lew@highlandernews.com. Subscribe to the newspaper by calling 830-693-4367 or click here to subscribe to our e-Edition online.