North Texas Storms Cause Damage and Injuries — Recovery Efforts Underway
Severe Storms Hit North Texas
On Saturday morning, North Texas faced a series of severe storms that resulted in sending at least four individuals to hospitals due to injuries. The harsh weather prompted multiple severe thunderstorm warnings throughout the region, although these alerts have since expired.
Storm Impact and Damage Reports
Winds reached speeds between 50 and 60 miles per hour in various areas, accompanied by hail varying in size from pea to quarter-sized. Communities in Ellis County experienced severe damages, including reports of overturned recreational vehicles, fallen trees, and downed power lines.
The Texas Department of Public Safety noted that six 18-wheelers were overturned on the southbound lanes of I-35, while one was affected in the opposite direction.
In Waxahachie, footage captured homes suffering from significant storm damage. One homeowner, Dechara Hyder, shared, “We actually woke up to large hail on our windows and we didn’t think anything of it. Then we started hearing wind was coming into the home and that’s when we discovered our windows had been blown out.”
In downtown Maypearl, further damage was noted, with a local grocery store experiencing power outages and sending perishables to other locations. Maypearl Primary School also suffered roof damage from the storms.
Visual Evidence of Storm Effects
Locals shared various videos and photos showing the storm’s impact. Some viewers submitted images of hail accumulation at their residences, while others reported fallen tree limbs contributing to the chaos in their neighborhoods.
Ennis: Damage from storm (Source: Chris Pryor)
Weather Outlook
The forecast for Saturday indicates continued rain and scattered thunderstorms, with precipitation covering approximately 60-70% of the area. As the day progresses, the cooler temperatures are expected to linger, remaining in the low 50s due to persistent cloud cover and north winds.
For Sunday, early showers may continue as residents adjust to the start of Daylight Saving Time. The weather is predicted to warm up significantly next week, with temperatures rising to the 70s and 80s.
Further Developments
As recovery efforts commence across affected areas, local authorities and organizations are working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide necessary support to those impacted.