Severe Thunderstorms Bring Relief and Hope for Rain in the Oklahoma Panhandle

 

NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory

Yesterday evening, as strong to severe thunderstorms made their way out of the Oklahoma panhandle and moved southward, they left behind a trail of havoc with large hail and destructive winds. Areas north of Amarillo, Texas experienced the wrath of these storms in the late evening, reporting hailstones as large as ping pong balls in Masterson, Texas, just 30 minutes north of Amarillo. As the night progressed, the severity of the storms diminished, but their coverage increased, offering what many in the region had been hoping and praying for - substantial rainfall. This article explores the remarkable events of these thunderstorms, the positive impact of the rainfall received, and the ongoing battle against the long-standing drought. Additionally, it provides insights into the updated U.S. Drought Monitor, future rain expectations, and the importance of staying informed with a reliable weather app.

Thunderstorms and Their Impact

The thunderstorms that swept through the Oklahoma panhandle and pushed southward had a strong start, unleashing their fury with large hail and damaging winds. However, as the sun set, the storms gradually lost their severity but compensated for it by increasing coverage. The result was a deluge of rain, fulfilling the hopes and prayers of many in the region who yearned for meaningful precipitation.

Much-Needed Rainfall:

The stormy night brought a welcome dose of rain, leaving many towns in a state of contentment and soggy delight as they woke up to the aftermath. Rainfall totals ranged from 0.25 to 1.2 inches, covering more than half of the area. While this rainfall is a cause for celebration, it is important to note that it falls short of fully eradicating the major drought that has plagued the region for over three years. Nevertheless, it serves as a promising start in the battle against the arid conditions.

U.S. Drought Monitor Update and Future Outlook:

The U.S. Drought Monitor is set to be updated this morning, and minor improvements are expected due to the rainfall received in certain areas last week, where 1 to 2 inches were reported. However, the rain from last night will not be factored into the drought monitor until next week. Looking ahead to the extended forecast, the region can anticipate a continuation of the wet pattern that emerged, bringing renewed hope. While the forthcoming rain may not be copious, average to above-average rainfall is anticipated between May 10th and 20th. Although the next few systems may not favor widespread rain in the Panhandles, it's worth noting that May is a time of the year when the dryline and subtle atmospheric disturbances can lead to fascinating weather phenomena. Last night's events are a testament to this.

Stay Weather Aware with a Reliable Weather App:

To ensure you're prepared for any weather changes, it's crucial to stay weather aware, even when you're on the go. Make sure to have a dependable weather app installed on your devices, allowing you to stay informed and make informed decisions based on the latest updates.