Severe Weather Threatens Ark-La-Tex Saturday With Hail and 60 MPH Winds Storm
SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA — The U.S. National Weather Service in Shreveport is warning residents across northern Louisiana and northeast Texas to prepare for potentially severe thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon and evening, bringing threats of hail, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes.
Forecasters have issued a Level 2 out of 5 “Slight Risk” for much of the Ark-La-Tex region, with the highest risk centered along and south of the I-20 corridor — including Shreveport, Natchitoches, Longview, and Ruston.
“Damaging wind gusts over 60 mph and hail up to quarter-size or larger are possible with the strongest storms,” the National Weather Service Shreveport said Friday. “A brief tornado cannot be ruled out.”
Storm Timing and Main Threats
The severe threat is expected to increase by Saturday afternoon, as a cold front pushes into the region and interacts with warm, moist Gulf air. The most intense storms are likely to develop during the late afternoon and evening hours, continuing through midnight before tapering off overnight.
Primary hazards include:
- Damaging winds up to 60 mph or higher
- Large hail up to the size of quarters or golf balls
- Heavy rainfall and isolated flash flooding
- Brief tornado potential in rotating storm cells
Areas of Concern and Preparedness
Communities in northern Louisiana, northeast Texas, and southern Arkansas are advised to remain alert throughout Saturday. Cities along Interstate 20, particularly Shreveport and Longview, may experience the most severe weather during the peak storm period.
Meteorologists urge residents to:
- Monitor weather alerts from the National Weather Service or trusted local sources.
- Secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and vehicles before storms arrive.
- Avoid driving during strong thunderstorms, as falling branches and debris may obstruct roadways.
- Keep multiple ways to receive warnings, including phone alerts and NOAA Weather Radio.
Looking Ahead
Once the storm system exits late Saturday night, cooler and drier air will move into the Ark-La-Tex by Sunday, bringing calmer conditions and highs in the upper 60s to low 70s.
However, forecasters caution that additional storm systems may follow next week as seasonal cold fronts continue to sweep through the southern U.S.
“Saturday’s storms are a reminder that fall can still produce dangerous severe weather,” NWS forecasters said. “Be ready to act quickly when warnings are issued.”
For continued severe weather updates and safety information across the South, visit NapervilleLocal.com.
Author: Harper Langley Category: Weather
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.