Severe storms possible this afternoon

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A portion of the northern Hill Country including Lampasas county is under a severe thunderstorm watch until 5 PM.

A cold front is approaching the I-35 corridor early this evening. Behind the front, colder air could mean an end to Camp Mabry's 13-day streak of above-average temperatures on Wednesday. But before cold air arrives, the front itself is bringing the possibility of a few severe thunderstorms this afternoon and evening.

Widespread severe weather is not expected, but there is a 30% chance of scattered showers and a few thunderstorms this evening behind the cold front. Any rainfall that does impact the area should exit by late this evening.

The main threats from any severe thunderstorms early this evening will be damaging wind gusts and large hail. Since central Texas is on the southern extent of the storm system, any threat of tornadoes should remain north of the area.

After the cold front exits the area late this evening, another threat will emerge.

Strong, gusty winds ushering in dry, cold air behind the front will mean a high risk for wind-driven wildfires. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for high fire danger in effect until 6 PM Wednesday.

Stay tuned to KXAN for the latest on the developing weather situation, and monitor the interactive weather radar here .