Tue May 27 05:20:00 UTC 2025: **Central Texas Braces for Severe Weather: Tornado Watch Extended, Warnings Issued**
**AUSTIN, Texas -** Central Texas is under a tornado watch until midnight tonight as a complex of severe storms sweeps through the region. Several counties experienced tornado warnings earlier in the evening, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and monitor weather updates.
The tornado watch covers Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Gillespie, Hays, Lee, Llano, Travis, and Williamson counties.
Northeastern Williamson County was under a tornado warning until 9 p.m. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado located near Bartlett, moving east at 35 mph. Bell and Milam counties were also under a Tornado Warning until 9:30 p.m.
A flash flood warning is in effect until 1 a.m. for Hays, Blanco, Travis, Burnet and Williamson counties.Bell, Milam and Falls counties are under Severe Thunderstorm Warnings until 9:30 p.m.Travis, Williamson, Hays and Bastrop counties are also under Severe Thunderstorm Warnings until 9:45 p.m.
Earlier in the evening, Blanco and Hays counties were under a Tornado Warning. A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Flugrath, moving east at 25 mph.
Numerous severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued across multiple counties, with reports of golf-ball-sized hail and 60 mph wind gusts.
Meteorologist Zack Shields warns of a slight to enhanced risk of severe storms, with the highest threat over the Hill Country. Residents can expect very large hail, damaging winds, frequent lightning, and the potential for isolated tornadoes. Localized flooding, particularly street flooding, is also a concern.
The NWS advises residents to seek shelter immediately if a tornado warning is issued. Move to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Those in mobile homes or vehicles should find substantial shelter and protect themselves from flying debris.
Stay informed by downloading the FOX 7 WAPP for real-time radar, hourly forecasts, and weather alerts.
First Piper 