A tornado classified as “large and extremely dangerous” struck the cities of Hawley and Hodges, in western Texas, on Thursday night (May 2, 2024).
Around 30 homes were completely destroyed in Hawley, as well as vehicles damaged by debris.
Several people were injured, but no deaths were reported as of Friday morning (3).
Damage recorded in the region
Local authorities confirmed the destruction of at least 30 homes in the central area of Hawley.
Cars were hit by roofs and trees were uprooted by the intense winds.
Police chief Brad Wilson reported that rescue teams treated multiple injured people during the early hours of the morning.
Situation of victims and care
Injuries ranged from mild to moderate, according to reports from emergency teams.
No deaths were confirmed by authorities at the time of the last update.
Residents received immediate assistance from firefighters and police officers who worked at the scene shortly after the phenomenon occurred.
https://twitter.com/JeepguyTexas/status/1993289713873305814?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwMeasures taken by schools
Distrito Escolar Independente of Hawley suspended face-to-face classes this Friday.
Students were allowed to carry out remote activities at home.
The decision aims to ensure safety while teams assess the damage close to school units.
New round of storms forecast
Serviço Nacional of Meteorologia issued a level 3 warning for severe thunderstorms in the Midwest of Texas this Friday.
The scale goes up to level 5, indicating a high risk for the formation of new tornadoes.
The areas affected on Thursday are again within the highest probability zone.
- Large hail can accompany storms
- Wind gusts above 100 km/h are expected in some areas
- Heavy rains increase the risk of localized flooding
- Surveillance remains active until early evening
Recent history of similar events
Texas has recorded multiple tornadoes in recent weeks, with episodes in different regions of the state.
In April, similar phenomena caused damage in cities such as Georgetown and Matador.
Tornado season in the Estados Unidos central corridor features above-average activity in 2024.
Action by local authorities
Defesa Civil teams carry out a detailed survey of the damage in the affected areas.
Residents were advised to avoid traveling on streets with downed wires and debris.
Support points were set up to assist families who lost their homes.
The tornado that hit Hawley was captured by cameras from residents and media outlets that were following the storm. The images show the rapid formation of the funnel and the direct impact on residential construction. Estimated Ventos exceeded 200 km/h at times, according to a preliminary analysis of Serviço Nacional and Meteorologia.