Arklatex Severe Storms Starting to Intensify

Mar 11, 2012; 5:36 AM ET

Photo courtesy of Photos.com.

A potent storm system coming out of the Four Corners region will spark a round of damaging thunderstorms across the Arklatex this afternoon and tonight.
All signs point to a decent setup for severe thunderstorms, especially through the evening hours.
One severe thunderstorm watch box is already in effect for storms moving through eastern Texas and western Louisiana.
Strong winds coming out of the Gulf region combined with abundant moisture and the approaching storm system will set the stage for additional showers and strong thunderstorms from eastern Oklahoma and eastern Texas through much of Arkansas and Louisiana.
As stronger winds aloft move eastward across this region of the country, ongoing thunderstorms will continue to gain strength and organization.
These storms will increase in intensity into this afternoon, especially with a few breaks of sun possible to the east of the storms which will help to further destabilize the atmosphere.
Damaging wind gusts and torrential, blinding downpours appear to be the main threats from these thunderstorms from Tyler and Houston, Texas, through Shreveport and Monroe, La., northward to Little Rock, Ark.

AccuWeather.com meteorologists continue to monitor the potential for an increasing tornado potential across this region. There is enough twisting of the winds in the atmosphere that a few tornadoes could develop, especially if there are more breaks of sunshine.
The best chance for tornadoes looks to be across central and southern Arkansas where the winds are more favorable for rotating storms.
For more information on this severe weather potential, please visit the AccuWeather.com Severe Weather Center.
Stay tuned to AccuWeather.com for more information on the tornado potential across the Arklatex region into tonight as well as local media outlets for potential watches and warnings.

Arklatex Severe Storms Starting to Intensify