Tornadoes, flash floods batter North Texas
Wreckage is strewn across a property the day after a deadly series of tornados hit the central United States, in Valley View, Texas, U.S. in a still image from aerial video. ABC Affiliate WFAA via PHOTOT:REUTERS
Severe storms swept across North Texas Saturday evening, spawning tornadoes and flash flooding that damaged buildings and prompted emergency rescues in several counties.
In Jack County, a tornado warning was issued between 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. as powerful storms rolled through the area.
In the aftermath, residents in Jacksboro shared images of property damage believed to have been caused by a tornado.
Later, tornado warnings extended to Hood and Parker Counties around 8:30 p.m. Officials in Hood County confirmed a tornado touchdown in Tolar, southwest of Granbury.
Several homes were damaged and numerous trees were downed, though no injuries were immediately reported.
The Granbury Fire Department said most damage was concentrated in the Tolar area.
Meanwhile, tornado warnings and flash flood watches were issued for multiple counties including Wise, Palo Pinto, Denton, and Cooke, stretching into the early morning hours.
In Montague County, heavy flooding impacted the town of Bowie. The National Weather Service confirmed multiple high-water rescues were underway in northern parts of the county late Saturday night.
Boat crews were dispatched to aid stranded residents near Nocona and Nocona Hills, where some were rescued from trees.
Emergency communication teams reported people trapped in their homes due to rising floodwaters. Despite the chaos, there were no immediate reports of fatalities.
The National Weather Service forecasted additional strong to severe storms overnight, with the potential for large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes.
Rain showers are expected to ease by midday Sunday, with clearer skies and temperatures in the 70s forecast for Easter afternoon. Rain chances are set to return Tuesday and linger through the week.
Authorities continue to assess damage as conditions develop.