Additional Coverage:
- Texas Tornadoes leave at least 2 dead and destroy dozens of homes as path of destruction continues (themirror.com)
At least two people have died following a series of tornadoes that struck northern Texas over the weekend, causing widespread damage and displacing around 20 families, officials reported Sunday.
Authorities confirmed emergency crews are working diligently to clear debris and provide medical aid to those affected. Wise County Judge J.D. Clark acknowledged that access to some areas has been challenging due to blocked roads and downed power lines but emphasized that response teams continue to press forward to assist residents in need.
The National Weather Service confirmed that an EF-2 tornado with peak winds reaching 135 mph touched down near Runaway Bay, while an EF-1 tornado with winds up to 105 mph was recorded in the Springtown area.
The severe weather system moved through the region around 10 p.m. Saturday, according to meteorologist Patricia Sanchez of the Fort Worth weather office. It tracked southeast from near Wichita Falls, close to the Oklahoma border, passing just west of Fort Worth.
Radar detected a “potentially large and extremely dangerous” tornado near Azle at approximately 10:14 p.m. Saturday night. Parker County ESD #1 Assistant Fire Chief David Pruitt confirmed one fatality in Parker County, south of Springtown.
In Wise County, Judge Clark reported an additional fatality, with six others receiving treatment for injuries from Wise County EMS. “Our hearts go out to that family during this incredibly difficult time,” Clark said. He also noted the significant damage across multiple neighborhoods and acknowledged the emotional toll on the community.
Power outages remain widespread, creating another urgent challenge for those impacted.
While the immediate storm has passed, the threat is ongoing. The National Weather Service issued Tornado Watch 152, effective until midnight Sunday, covering Northwest Arkansas and 14 counties in Oklahoma.
Additionally, large areas of Kansas remain under a tornado warning until 11 p.m. Sunday.
Residents are urged to stay alert and monitor updates from the National Weather Service as severe weather conditions continue in the region.