A severe thunderstorm warning issued by the US National Weather Service disrupted travel across parts of central Texas, as both residents and visitors were urged to take immediate shelter. The alert, announced at approximately 6:31 pm Central Standard Time, covered Garden City and Saint Lawrence and remained in place until 7:00 pm, creating concern over the safety of transport routes, tourist locations and local infrastructure.
The storm was tracked moving east at around 25 miles per hour, with radar indicating wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph and hail measuring roughly the size of a nickel. Such conditions posed a clear risk of damage to roofs, windows, vehicles and vegetation. With heavy gusts and falling debris anticipated, outdoor movement in the affected zones became hazardous within minutes. For travellers, the warning signalled the need to alter plans, particularly those involving outdoor attractions, road travel or regional flights.
Several local destinations were identified as vulnerable to the worst of the conditions. Garden City, known for its open landscapes and historic character, and Saint Lawrence, recognised for its parks and walking trails, both faced potential disruption. Reagan County Airport was also included in the warning area, raising the likelihood of flight delays or temporary suspensions as safety checks were carried out. The risk extended to nearby communities, as the storm’s eastward path suggested the possibility of further impact beyond the initially named towns.
Tourists in the region were advised to move to sturdy buildings, avoid driving and stay in internal rooms away from windows until the threat passed. Preparations for possible power outages were also recommended, with visitors encouraged to rely on battery-operated devices and regular weather updates. Once the warning expired, conditions were expected to ease, though lingering hazards such as fallen branches or structural damage were still possible.
While the storm was short in duration, it highlighted how quickly severe weather can interrupt travel plans. The broader concern now lies in how well local networks and visitors alike can adapt to increasingly unpredictable weather patterns across key travel regions.
