Severe storms have wreaked havoc in Valley View, Texas, north of Dallas, leaving a gas station in ruins. The area has witnessed significant damage, with reports of multiple victims and individuals trapped in Denton County. The extent of injuries is currently unknown. The aftermath includes overturned 18-wheelers, damaged homes, and downed power lines.
Residents of Salina, a city within Denton County, have been advised to remain indoors and avoid venturing out due to suspected tornado activity. In Oklahoma, Claremore is on lockdown following reports of extensive damage to residences, fallen trees, and power outages. The state emergency operations center has been activated to address the situation.
Approximately 240,000 customers are currently without power across several states in the region. The threat persists as meteorologists report ongoing severe weather conditions. Over 200 severe thunderstorm incidents have been recorded, including a dozen tornado reports, over 100 cases of damaging winds, and numerous reports of hail as large as baseballs.
A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect for parts of Texas, while tornado watches are active for several regions. The severe weather is expected to continue throughout the day, with storms progressing eastward. Tornado warnings and severe thunderstorm alerts are still prevalent as the weather systems move towards Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
The forecast indicates the potential for additional tornadoes, large hailstones, and damaging wind gusts. Major cities such as Chicago, Cleveland, Atlanta, Nashville, Memphis, and St. Louis are at risk of severe weather. The storm system is projected to advance towards the northeast, affecting cities like Chattanooga, Knoxville, Atlanta, and Charlotte in the coming hours.
The situation remains dynamic, with the likelihood of severe weather persisting into the evening. Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety amidst the ongoing severe weather conditions.
