Tornado Watch for northern counties today, ABC13 Weather Alert Day tomorrow for widespread storms

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch through 9PM for our northern-most counties, that includes Brazos, Burleson, Grimes, Madison, Trinity, and Walker counties.

We do not expect storms today in the Houston metro, but will monitor those areas farther north for an isolated severe or tornadic storm.

We are also declaring Saturday an ABC13 Weather Alert Day for the possibility of severe weather. Areas especially along and east of the I-45 corridor have a chance for hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes.

But before we get to Saturday, we have a warm and muggy end to the week. It will also be windy on Friday with gusts to 40 mph. A Wind Advisory will be in effect from 7am-7pm Friday.

There's a chance for some rain today, but those rain chances are fairly low at just 20%. A couple of strong to severe storms are possible in our northern counties. Make sure you stay weather aware in case you end up with a strong storm near you. Rain chances become widespread Saturday and severe storms will be a possibility.

What can you tell me about Saturday's strong cold front?

The cold front will pass through our area Saturday afternoon. Our atmosphere will be unstable enough for strong to severe storms to occur with the front. Once the front passes, most of the rain will end and temps will fall. We're talking highs in the 60s Sunday and Monday. Lows will drop to the lower 50s and upper 40s Monday and Tuesday mornings.

Does this mean drought conditions will improve?

Likely improve, yes! Completely relieved? Not for everyone. The rain from this past week and what's expected this week will be beneficial though for those with drought conditions.

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don't, just hit 'skip upload' and send the details.