San Antonio, Texas, is bracing for potentially severe weather conditions as a tornado watch has been issued for the region. The National Weather Service has warned of possible thunderstorms and hail throughout South Texas today, .
The greatest threat of thunderstorms is expected during the afternoon and into the early evening hours, according to forecasts. While severe weather is not currently anticipated, conditions are being closely monitored. This comes as communities across the state reflect on the historic February 2021 winter storm, a period of record-breaking cold and snow that caused widespread disruption, and hardship.
The weather alert follows a weekend marked by several incidents in and around San Antonio. Early , a man was shot after allegedly pointing a gun at three security guards outside a North Side business. Police responded to the scene in the 4000 block of I-35 North. A driver was also injured by a stray bullet during the incident, highlighting the potential for collateral damage in such situations.
Separately, a man was fatally struck by a vehicle on the Northeast Side, in the 700 block of East Sonterra Boulevard. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the pedestrian’s death. On Saturday, a separate shooting occurred in the 4000 block of I-35 North, and a driver was injured by a stray bullet.
In other news, a CLEAR Alert, issued for a missing 24-year-old man last seen in San Antonio, has been discontinued. Jason Wright, the subject of the alert, has been located, bringing relief to his family and authorities. The alert’s cancellation underscores the importance of rapid response systems in locating missing persons.
The city is also preparing for Presidents’ Day, with a list of businesses and services that will be open or closed being widely circulated. This annual observance provides a brief respite for many, though the approaching weather conditions may alter plans for some residents.
The local sports community is also in mourning following the death of Jaren Lawson, a 16-year-old football player from Stevens High School. A funeral was held on afternoon, attended by family, friends, and classmates. A balloon release was also held in his honor, demonstrating the profound impact of his loss on the community.
Elsewhere in the region, Bexar County saw a record-breaking 154 couples wed at a midnight Valentine’s Day ceremony at the county courthouse. This event, held on , highlights the enduring appeal of traditional celebrations even amidst challenging circumstances. The sheer number of couples participating underscores a continued desire for connection and commitment.
Further afield, in Dripping Springs, students staged a walkout to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Some participants were cited for traffic violations during the demonstration. This event reflects a growing trend of student activism on issues of social and political importance, and the potential for clashes between protesters and law enforcement.
A separate incident involving a sudden airspace shutdown over El Paso this week has left travelers scrambling and officials searching for answers. The cause of the shutdown remains under investigation, raising questions about aviation security and air traffic control procedures. The disruption highlights the vulnerability of modern transportation systems to unforeseen events.
A small fire at a restaurant near Alamo Quarry Market was quickly extinguished by firefighters, with no injuries reported. The swift response of emergency services prevented the situation from escalating, demonstrating the effectiveness of local fire safety protocols. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in maintaining public safety.
Authorities are also seeking the public’s help in locating a missing 15-year-old girl last seen on the Far West Side. Jasmine Natividad left her home between midnight and 12:30 a.m. On . The search for Natividad underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in protecting vulnerable individuals.
The combination of severe weather alerts, local incidents, and ongoing investigations paints a complex picture of life in and around San Antonio. While the city prepares for potential storms, authorities are also addressing issues of public safety, missing persons, and community mourning. The events of this weekend demonstrate the resilience and interconnectedness of the region, as residents navigate both challenges and celebrations.
