A powerful tornado-producing thunderstorm tore through northern Texas on Saturday night, leaving at least two people dead and destroying multiple homes, authorities confirmed on Sunday. The storm displaced at least 20 families and caused widespread damage, particularly in the towns of Runaway Bay and Springtown.
Emergency Response and Damage Assessment
Wise County Judge J.D. Clark, the county's chief executive, reported that emergency crews worked through Saturday night and Sunday to clear debris and reach damaged homes. 'Access has been difficult due to blocked roadways and downed utilities, but crews have continued pushing forward to reach those in need,' Clark said during a news conference. He added that roads in the affected area would remain closed to ensure safety for emergency operations.
In Springtown, Parker County Assistant Fire Chief David Pruitt confirmed a second death south of the city limits. 'There is significant damage in the area,' Pruitt stated in an email. 'One of the most significant ongoing challenges is the widespread power outage affecting many residents. Officials are coordinating with utility providers and emergency partners as restoration efforts continue.'
Tornado Confirmed as EF-2
National Weather Service teams confirmed that an EF-2 tornado with peak winds of 135 mph (217 kph) touched down near Runaway Bay. Meteorologist Patricia Sanchez from the Fort Worth weather service office said the slow-moving supercell moved through the area around 10 p.m. Saturday, traveling southeast from near Wichita Falls, close to the Oklahoma border, and passing just west of Fort Worth. Runaway Bay, located approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) northwest of Fort Worth on Lake Bridgeport, was among the hardest-hit areas. Springtown, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) northwest of Fort Worth, also sustained significant damage.
Weather service radar detected a 'potentially large and extremely dangerous' tornado near Azle at 10:14 p.m. Saturday, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) southeast of Springtown. Officials continue to assess damage and provide aid to affected residents.
