Texas Panhandle Under Severe Thunderstorm Watch With Tornado and Hail Threat Monday Evening

ENID, Okla. — Residents across the Texas Panhandle and parts of northwest Oklahoma are facing a dangerous storm threat this evening as a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 12 a.m. Tuesday, with the potential for tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail up to two inches in diameter, according to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center.

Communities at Highest Risk

Forecasters warn that storms will intensify through the evening, bringing wind gusts up to 70 mph and the risk of isolated tornadoes across a broad area. The threat zone stretches from Guymon and Woodward, Oklahoma, into Canadian and Borger, Texas.

Communities including Enid, Liberal, Perryton, and Pratt are squarely within the watch area. Strong winds and hail could damage rooftops, power lines, and trees, particularly in rural counties where open landscapes provide little protection from severe weather.

Travel and Infrastructure Concerns

Travel conditions could deteriorate quickly on major highways such as U.S. 64 and U.S. 60, where sudden downpours, crosswinds, and flying debris may make driving hazardous.

Emergency officials are urging residents to:

• Secure outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Charge mobile devices in case of extended power outages.
• Have a safe shelter ready to use if tornado warnings are issued.

Hospitals and schools in the region are also monitoring the situation closely, with more than 250 schools potentially impacted if storms strengthen overnight.

Preparedness and Safety Tips

Meteorologists stress that severe weather after sunset increases danger due to low visibility. Residents should have multiple alert systems, including NOAA Weather Radios, phone apps, and local siren systems.

Preparedness experts recommend assembling a storm kit with:

• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First-aid supplies
• Bottled water and shelf-stable food
• Portable chargers for phones and radios

Checking on neighbors, particularly seniors or those without access to real-time alerts, is also advised.

Storm Outlook Into the Night

The severe thunderstorm watch extends into western Kansas and central Oklahoma, remaining active until midnight Tuesday. Additional severe thunderstorm or tornado warnings are likely as storms evolve and spread eastward overnight.

With the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes, communities across the Texas Panhandle and surrounding regions are urged to remain vigilant.

Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware and prepared to take shelter if conditions worsen. For continuing severe weather coverage and safety updates, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.