Tornadoes were reported on the ground around 6 p.m. in Jarrell, Luling and Round Rock, according to the National Weather Service.
Williamson County's Office of Emergency Management said a tornado touched down on I-35 and SH 45 in Round Rock. There were reports of damage to the Round Rock Recreation Center, Kalahari Resorts and other businesses.
The City of Taylor reported downed power lines and damage from a tornado.
Austin and surrounding areas are under a tornado watch until 10 p.m. The main hazards are large hail, damaging winds and the potential for a tornado. A tornado watch means tornadoes are possible in the area, but it doesn’t mean one has occurred. The NWS issues a tornado warning if a tornado is about to touch the ground.
Some roads may become dangerous or impassable because of flooding. Check the ATXfloods website for closures.
Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to prepare resources to aid communities impacted by the severe weather.
“In preparation for this severe weather, I have directed TDEM to increase its readiness and place emergency response resources on standby for rapid deployment if needed,” Abbott said in a statement. “The state will continue monitoring these conditions and is ready to assist local communities affected by these storms. I ask Texans to stay alert and informed of weather developments and heed guidance from local officials.”
Follow the National Weather Service's updates on Twitter below:
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