Sonali Tiwary
An omega block weather pattern has anchored itself over the Central U.S., forcing repeated waves of thunderstorms to pass through Austin until Thursday, May 8, 2025. This large-scale pattern, where two low-pressure troughs flank a high-pressure ridge, creates a weather holding pattern that resembles the Greek letter Ω (omega block weather pattern) (Wikipedia).
According to the National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio Area Forecast Discussion issued May 6, two rounds of strong to severe storms moved through Tuesday, with a third, slightly weaker round expected Wednesday as a “strong shortwave” and stalled front continue to create favorable conditions for large hail, damaging winds and flooding risks.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of Southeast Texas—including areas north and east of Austin—under an enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms today, warning of hail up to 2 inches in diameter and wind gusts reaching 70 mph . Thursday maintains a marginal risk.
Austin Camp Mabry can expect high temperatures near 85 °F Tuesday with an 80 percent chance of thunderstorms. Wednesday brings highs near 86 °F with a 30 percent chance of afternoon showers and storms. Overnight lows will stay in the mid‑ to upper‑60s. By Thursday, a quasi‑stationary coastal front brings 30–50 percent chances of precipitation, heaviest along the Rio Grande Plains.
The Federal Aviation Administration’s National Airspace System Status shows ground stops at Austin‑Bergstrom International Airport due to “WEATHER / LOW CEILINGS,” causing arrival delays up to 15 minutes and departure delays averaging 2 hours 41 minutes as of May 6 .
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