Large storm system heading for Texas

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A major storm system is headed toward Texas and will be changing our weather dramatically Wednesday.

Moisture is already surging into the area ahead of a powerful upper-level low-pressure system dropping into the Desert Southwest.

The storm will turn east toward Texas Wednesday, bringing increasing rain and thunderstorms to much of the state.

In parts of the Texas Panhandle, the rain may turn to snow. Winter Storm Warnings are in effect from California to Kansas.

Here in Central Texas, this will not be a cold system, but overcast, damp weather will keep temperatures in the 50s Wednesday. We expect lowering cloud ceilings, increasing light fog and drizzle, and patchy light rain during the day Wednesday, followed by an increasing chance for showers and thunderstorms Wednesday night through Thursday morning.

Some of the storms may become severe, especially before sunrise Thursday morning. Some storms may contain large hail and damaging wind gusts. An isolated tornado can’t be ruled out. Rainfall totals are expected to average 1/2 inch, but a few isolated 1 inch totals will be possible.

The system will clear the area early in the day Thursday, with sunshine and afternoon temperatures in the 70s behind the storm. Tranquil weather will continue through the weekend.