Stormy start expected for Easter Sunday

AUSTIN, Texas - Central Texas is likely in for stormy weather Saturday night into Easter Sunday. Some of these storms could be severe.

An area of low pressure will approach Texas from the west, eventually moving in Saturday evening. This will provide abundant lift in the atmosphere, setting the stage for storms.

Ahead of the system, the air-mass in place over much of the state will become increasingly humid and unstable.

NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has much of Central and West Texas under an Enhanced Risk (3 of 5) for severe weather Saturday night/Sunday morning. An Enhanced Risk means numerous, persistent severe storms are possible.

For most of Central Texas, the threat will arrive after midnight Saturday night, into the early morning hours of Easter Sunday. Here's a look at the approximate storm timing:

• Hill Country: 1 AM-3AM
• I-35 corridor: 3AM-5AM
• Eastern zones: 5 AM-7AM

The main hazards will be large hail (possibly golf ball size) and 70 mph wind gusts. A few tornadoes will also be possible in storms with a little more wind shear.

Storms will also have the potential to produce heavy rain in a short period of time but widespread flash flooding isn't likely. The cells will likely be moving at about 25-35 mph, not lingering over one area for too long.

Nighttime severe storms can be much more dangerous. Make sure you have ways to receive weather alerts after you’ve gone to bed. For many, smartphones get automatic Weather Emergency Alerts when an alert comes out near their location. NOAA weather radios are also a good resource, sounding a loud alarm when a watch or warning is issued for the area.

If you’ve downloaded the FOX 7 WAPP you can also enable weather alerts/notifications through the app’s settings.

Storms should clear the area by mid-morning, paving the way for a beautiful Easter Sunday afternoon.