Monday, June 9, 2025

On Sunday, June 8, 2025, severe thunderstorms unleashed destructive weather across Texas and Oklahoma, with wind gusts reaching up to 100 mph and hailstones as large as grapefruits. These storms resulted in widespread power outages, toppled trees, and significant property damage.

As the system moves eastward, millions from the Gulf Coast to the Northeast are now on alert for continued severe weather.

The storms that struck Texas on Sunday night were among the most intense of the season. The National Weather Service issued two “Particularly Dangerous Situation” (PDS) Severe Thunderstorm Watches, a rare alert indicating the potential for life-threatening weather. Wind gusts of up to 100 mph were reported in Goree, Texas, while near-golf ball-sized hail fell near Claude, Texas. These conditions led to nearly 200 storm reports, including wind, hail, tornadoes, and flash flooding damage across the state.

At the peak of the storm, approximately 160,000 customers were without power. By early Monday morning, that number had decreased to about 90,000, thanks to rapid response efforts. The storms also caused significant damage to infrastructure; for instance, the KTXS news station in Abilene sustained extensive damage, including a collapsed roof and a toppled broadcast tower, knocking the station off-air.

As the system progresses eastward, the severe weather threat is now shifting toward the Gulf Coast and Northeast regions. The National Weather Service has issued a Level 2 risk on its 5-point severe thunderstorm scale for much of the Southeast and Northeast. The primary threats include damaging wind gusts, large hail, and the possibility of tornadoes.

Cities along the Interstate 95 corridor, including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia, are particularly at risk. Residents in these areas should remain vigilant and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

In addition to the severe thunderstorms, two tropical systems are developing in the Eastern Pacific. Tropical Storm Barbara, located off Mexico’s southern coast, is expected to become the season’s first hurricane. To the west, Tropical Storm Cosme is also forecast to intensify to near-hurricane strength later this week.

While these systems are currently in the Eastern Pacific, their development could influence weather patterns across the United States, particularly if they move northward. Residents along the West Coast and in the Gulf Coast should monitor these systems closely for any potential impacts.

As severe weather continues to affect large portions of the country, it’s essential for residents to stay informed and prepared:

By taking these precautions, individuals can better protect themselves and their families during severe weather events.

The severe weather pattern is expected to persist throughout the week. In Texas, a slow-moving upper-level low-pressure system combined with tropical moisture from the Caribbean will bring days of widespread downpours, potentially leading to flash flooding. The National Weather Service has issued flash flood watches for parts of Central and East Texas, including San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas.

Meanwhile, the East Coast should prepare for continued thunderstorms, with the risk of damaging winds and hail diminishing but not entirely dissipating. Residents in affected areas should remain alert and follow local advisories.

The severe weather events of June 8, 2025, have underscored the importance of preparedness and vigilance. As the system moves eastward, the threat of severe storms continues to pose risks to millions of Americans. By staying informed, taking necessary precautions, and following official guidance, individuals can help ensure their safety during this active weather period.