DALLAS – Powerful winds exceeding 70 miles per hour swept through North Texas early Tuesday morning, leaving a trail of destruction that included overturned vehicles, structural damage, and widespread power outages.
Major Incidents Reported
As the storm moved through the region, multiple accidents were reported on major highways. An 18-wheeler overturned on southbound Interstate 35E in Glenn Heights, near the Dallas and Ellis County line, around 5:30 a.m. A similar incident occurred on I-35W near Cross Timbers Road in Denton County.
Traffic reporter Chip Waggoner estimated that at least seven 18-wheelers were flipped due to the intense winds. Additionally, RVs were reported overturned on White Settlement Road in Parker County, and a warehouse in Lewisville suffered a structural collapse.
Storm Damage to Schools and Infrastructure
The severe winds also caused significant damage to schools. Plano West Senior High School sustained roof damage, while Kennedale ISD reported that the storms may have sparked a fire at its junior high school, leading to a full-day closure.
Record Wind Speeds
FOX 4 Weather Meteorologist Evan Andrews confirmed that official reports measured straight-line wind gusts at 74 mph at DFW Airport and 78 mph at Dallas Love Field—levels strong enough to cause extensive damage across the region.
Widespread Power Outages
The extreme winds have left nearly 300,000 homes and businesses without power as of 7 a.m., primarily affecting Dallas, Tarrant, and Denton counties, according to Oncor.
Ongoing Coverage
FOX 4 crews are on the ground gathering more details on the extent of the damage. As the storms clear and daylight reveals the full impact, additional reports are expected.
Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to monitor this developing situation.