Tornado watch issued for parts of Southeast Texas, Louisiana

National Weather Service urges residents to be prepared

Several counties in Southeast Texas and Louisiana are under a tornado watch until 9 p.m. CDT. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued the watch due to conditions that are favorable for the development of tornadoes.

The NWS urges residents in the affected areas to be prepared to take shelter if a tornado warning is issued. A tornado warning means that a tornado has been spotted or is indicated by radar and is imminent or already occurring. If a tornado warning is issued, residents should immediately take shelter in a sturdy building and stay away from windows.

The NWS also recommends that residents have a plan in place for what to do in the event of a tornado. This plan should include identifying a safe place to shelter, such as a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a building. Residents should also have a battery-powered radio and flashlight on hand in case of a power outage.

The NWS will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Residents in the affected areas are encouraged to stay tuned to local news and weather reports for the latest information.

Counties under tornado watch:

• Texas: Chambers, Hardin, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange
• Louisiana: Calcasieu, Cameron, Vermilion

Safety tips for tornadoes:

• Have a plan in place for what to do in the event of a tornado.
• Identify a safe place to shelter, such as a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a building.
• Have a battery-powered radio and flashlight on hand in case of a power outage.
• Stay tuned to local news and weather reports for the latest information.
• If a tornado warning is issued, take shelter immediately in a sturdy building and stay away from windows.