A deadly storm system tore across North Texas early Saturday, unleashing destructive winds, heavy rain, and hail that left a trail of devastation across multiple counties. The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts as high as 97 miles per hour in Ellis County, the hardest-hit area, where one person was killed and at least three others were injured in storm-related incidents.
The fatality occurred in Ennis, where a recreational vehicle parked at the Texas Motorplex was tossed repeatedly by the storm’s violent winds. The victim, 42-year-old T.J. Bailey of Midlothian, was inside the RV with his wife and two children when the vehicle was lifted and rolled several times. Bailey died at the scene, while his family was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Local officials, including Ellis County Justice of the Peace Chris Macon, remarked on the storm’s unprecedented intensity, describing the winds as unlike anything the region had previously experienced.
Widespread property damage was reported across Ellis County. In the city of Ennis, a Days Inn hotel had its roof completely ripped off during the storm, exposing the top floor to torrential rain and wind. All 20 guests staying at the hotel were evacuated safely, and no injuries were reported at that location. Elsewhere in the city, the east-facing wall of a grocery store collapsed under the wind pressure. Emergency crews worked through the morning hours to ensure structural safety and assist with evacuation procedures.
Transportation across the region was significantly disrupted. Interstate 35, a major corridor through North Texas, saw multiple tractor-trailers and vehicles overturned by the storm’s ferocity. Authorities confirmed that at least 18 vehicles, including semi-trucks, were flipped or forced off the road. Several routes remained closed for cleanup and inspection well into the afternoon.
Power outages affected tens of thousands of homes and businesses throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Ellis County alone reported approximately 6,000 outages. Utility crews from Oncor and Atmos Energy responded to the widespread electrical disruptions, although fallen trees and windblown debris slowed repair efforts. Residents were advised to remain indoors and to report any downed lines or unsafe conditions to emergency services.
In response to the widespread damage, Texas Governor Greg Abbott activated state emergency response resources and requested a federal disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The declaration would enable low-interest disaster loans for residents and business owners affected by the storm. Abbott also urged Texans in impacted areas to remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to heed all official advisories.
As the storm system continued to move eastward, the National Weather Service maintained weather alerts for adjacent regions, cautioning that further severe weather was possible. Emergency management officials emphasized the importance of preparedness and recommended that residents ensure they have access to weather updates and emergency supplies.
Recovery efforts are now underway, with local and state officials assessing the extent of the storm’s impact. Initial estimates suggest millions of dollars in damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Community shelters have been set up in affected areas, and non-profits have mobilized to assist families displaced by the storm. Officials encouraged those in need to contact local assistance centers or visit city websites for updates on relief efforts.
The early March storm underscores the unpredictability and growing intensity of severe weather events in Texas. Meteorologists note that while spring storms are common in the region, the magnitude of this system’s wind speeds and damage was exceptional. As communities begin the process of recovery, officials stress the importance of vigilance and continued investment in storm preparedness infrastructure.
