Multiple tornadoes struck parts of Texas and Oklahoma, killing at most one person, according to officials from the United States. They also caused widespread damage in areas around Austin and Dallas.
Officials confirmed that a 73 year-old woman was killed in the tornado that struck Sherwood Shores, Texas, Monday night. Ten other storm-related injuries are reported in the county located approximately 145km (90miles) north Dallas and near the Oklahoma border.
Officials stated that the storm system was expected to move into Louisiana on Tuesday. This could pose a risk for dangerous tornadoes as well as powerful winds.
According to Jeremy Grams (lead forecaster at the Storm Prediction Center, Norman, Oklahoma), the system brought heavy rain and thunderstorms to parts Texas and Arkansas on Tuesday morning. A tornado watch was in force for parts of Texas, Louisiana.
Round Rock, Texas was the first to witness today’s tornadoes.
If you’re in the path a tornado, stay inside.
Keep checking our LIVE severe weather coverage for updates pic.twitter.com/9ajtxgljen
The Weather Channel (@weatherchannel). March 22, 2022
Grams stated Tuesday morning that although we are still uncertain about how intense and long-lasting these tornadoes might be, we will be just below the threshold of the greatest danger.
Authorities said that in Louisiana, high water on Tuesday morning presented a threat to motorists along several roads, including an Interstate 20 stretch and several state highways. It also caused flooding after overnight rains. Three drivers were rescued by Caddo Parish, which also includes Shreveport, during the night, according to the sheriff’s office.
The stormy weather comes one day after tornadoes ripped through central Texas and north Texas on Monday. It destroyed homes and businesses, knocked out power and injured at most a few people.
It also happens after severe winter storms in Texas in February left hundreds upon thousands without heat or power.
The local NBC affiliate reported that a tornado had struck Bowie, Texas and a family of three people were able to be rescued from the rubble. One woman was taken to the hospital.
Multiple other structures were damaged around the town of 5, located approximately 145km (90miles) northwest Dallas.
Officials said that multiple homes were destroyed or left in ruins after a tornado struck Round Rock, Texas. Round Rock is home to around 120,000 people and is located 32km (20 mi) from Austin.
Kingston, Oklahoma, was the victim of another tornado.
On Tuesday, storms were expected intensify as temperatures rise. This will increase the risk of tornadoes and hail as well as strong winds. A large portion of Louisiana and Mississippi were at moderate risk of severe storms, which is the second highest risk category as issued by Storm Prediction Center.
Louisiana’s federal and state authorities reminded thousands who survived hurricanes in mobile homes and recreational vehicle trailers provided by the government to have an evacuation plan in case the structures are not able to withstand the weather. Officials said that more than 8,000 households are currently living in these temporary quarters.
Texas was already suffering from the effects of the storm. Officials reported extensive damage to Jacksboro, located about 100km (62 mi) northwest of Fort Worth. Photographs posted on social networks showed that a storm tore the wall and roof off Jacksboro High school, including its gym.
Starla Sanders, Principal of the schools, told WFAA-TV Dallas that it brought tears to her eyes.
In Texas, firefighters were also making progress in containing a massive wildfire that claimed the lives of one person.
Since a series fires broke out last week in an area west Dallas, the Eastland Complex fire has now burned approximately 220sq km (85sq mi). As of Monday night, the fires had been contained to 60 percent.
Officials stated that the fire destroyed 147 structures and caused the death of Deputy Sergeant Barbara Fenley. Fenley died while going door-to-door telling residents to evacuate.
Officials said that crews have responded to 178 wildfires which have burned almost 440sq km (170sq mile) in the state since last Thursday.
