Special Weather Statement issued September 25 at 7:51AM CDT by NWS Lubbock TX

Doppler radar picked up the storms near Whitharral and stretching to about 11 miles west of Welch, moving east at 30 mph. That put them on a track toward Lubbock and a wide stretch of surrounding towns, including Levelland, Brownfield, Slaton, Wolfforth, Shallowater, Idalou, Ransom Canyon, Abernathy, Tahoka, Anton, O'Donnell, Woodrow, and Reese Center. Most of the region was caught in the warning at once.

The National Weather Service said the wind gusts, radar indicated rather than confirmed by spotters, could snap tree limbs and send unsecured objects flying. No hail or tornado threat came with this particular statement, just straight-line wind strong enough to cause a headache for anyone with lawn furniture, trash cans, or loose patio umbrellas sitting out.

For neighbors across Lubbock and Wolfforth, that means a quick walk around the yard before heading to work might save a broken window or a dented car. Drivers on the South Plains, especially in high-profile vehicles or trailers, should expect sudden crosswind gusts on the open highways connecting these towns.

The whole system was forecast to push through and clear by 8:30 a.m., a fast-moving reminder that West Texas wind doesn't wait for a forecast to catch up.