Residents across central Texas woke to the rumble of thunder and the flash of lightning as a fast-moving line of severe storms swept across the region. The National Weather Service in Fort Worth issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for parts of McLennan, Limestone, Hill, and Navarro counties, effective until 7:00 AM CDT.

At 5:59 AM, radar detected a line of intense thunderstorms stretching from Italy to Carl’s Corner to Blum, barreling southeast at 45 mph. These storms are packing 60 mph wind gusts and penny-sized hail, with the potential to damage roofs, siding, and trees.

The storms are expected to impact several towns and landmarks in rapid succession:

• By 6:05 AM: Hillsboro, Whitney, Bynum, Aquilla Lake
• By 6:15 AM: Navarro Mills Lake
• By 6:20 AM: West, Dawson
• By 6:25 AM: Hubbard
• By 6:35 AM: Coolidge
• By 6:40 AM: Waco, Bellmead, Lacy-Lakeview, Hallsburg, Northcrest
• By 6:45 AM: Tradinghouse Creek Reservoir, Lake Mexia
• By 6:50 AM: Mexia, Mart

Other communities such as Malone, Elm Mott, Mount Calm, and Frost may also experience severe conditions.

Motorists should be alert for hazardous conditions along major highways, including:

• Interstate 35 between mile markers 335 and 369
• Interstate 35W near mile marker 1
• Interstate 35E near mile marker 371

Authorities urge residents to seek shelter in sturdy buildings and stay away from windows. Continuous cloud-to-ground lightning poses a deadly risk, and heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding. Drivers are reminded: “Turn around, don’t drown.”

Keep it locked on KNCT for the latest weather developments, and catch Bill Hecke’s expert updates anytime, on demand at myKNCT.com.