Weather alert in place for North Texas Friday evening, says the NWS

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A weather alert was issued by the NWS Fort Worth TX on Friday at 8:01 p.m. for rain and strong winds until 8:30 p.m. The alert is for Denton, Collin and Dallas counties.

Residents should be prepared for wind gusts of up to 55 mph.

"At 7:59 p.m., Doppler radar tracked an area of light rain near Farmers Branch, moving northeast at 15 mph. Very strong winds are occurring beneath these light rain showers," explains the NWS. "Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects."

Expect rain and strong winds in Dallas, Carrollton, Coppell, Farmers Branch, Addison, and Hebron around 8:05 p.m.

Other locations impacted include Buckingham and Lewisville Lake.

The NWS adds, "If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building."

This alert is in effect until 8:30 p.m.

What to do in the rain on the road?

• Turn on your headlights - Even when it's light outside, using headlights can improve visibility and alert other drivers to your presence.
• While on the road - Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
• Steer clear of puddles - Driving into puddles or low areas of rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control.
• Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
• Avoid flooded zones - If you encounter a flooded road, make a U-turn and go back. The powerful currents of flash floods can carry drivers off the road. Driving through deep water can also damage a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by three factors:

1. Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:

• Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published May 15, 2026 at 8:03 PM.