We have two geographically large threats today. Tornado Risk The brown area has a significant risk of a tornado. Damaging Wind Risk The purple area has a high  risk of thunderstorm-generated wind gusts of 60 mph or stronger. The red area has an enhanced risk. The yellow area has a significant risk.  Power outages are quite likely. Please prepare accordingly. 

--- 3:25pm Post --- Note that in addition to tornadoes, tennis ball-sized hail and wind gusts to 75 mph are forecast to occur.  ------ The yellow area has an enhanced  tornado risk. In Iowa, the yellow area includes Waterloo and Charles City and nearly includes Dubuque and Mason City. The brown area has a significant tornado risk which, in Iowa, includes Ames, Marshalltown and Clear Lake. In Minnesota, the brown area includes Rochester.  The hatching means that any tornado that occurs in that area could be strong.  I will update occasionally on Twitter/X   @usweatherexpert  . 

While the tropical storm watches have been extended, the forecast peak winds with the system have been lowered. The greater threat with this system is possible heavy rain in Texas when it comes inland over the weekend or the first of next week. 

Via Bjorn Lomborg: Multiple scientists have pointed out that this year's wildfire activity is well below average. Plus, Canada's temperatures have averaged below  average so far in 2026.  The "global warming caused the Canadian wildfires" is the usual alarmist nonsense. 

.... here are suggestions for debris pick up if you county or city is offering it.  Good luck, Texas!!

The National Hurricane Center is alerting people the area outlined along the Gulf Coast should be prepared for a tropical storm. While wind may be a problem, torrential rain may also develop.  I'm very concerned that this storm will bring more heavy rain to south Texas.  Of course, I will update on this situation.