North Texas Tornado Outbreak

Overview

A devastating tornado outbreak struck North Texas between April 25 and 28, 2026, as part of a broader six-day severe weather sequence across the central United States. On the night of April 25, an EF-2 tornado with 135 mph winds tore through Runaway Bay in Wise County, killing Juan Madrid, 51, when his mobile home was lifted and thrown by the storm. A second tornado struck Springtown in Parker County, killing Kathleen Lietzke. At least six people were injured and over 40 families were displaced. On April 28, an EF-3 tornado with peak winds of 145 mph and a width of 800 yards tracked 4.69 miles through Mineral Wells in Palo Pinto County, destroying warehouses and significantly damaging homes, with five people hospitalized. In total, the National Weather Service confirmed at least nine tornadoes across North Texas during this period. Nearly 40,000 Oncor customers lost power. Local officials in both Mineral Wells and Runaway Bay declared states of disaster and implemented curfews. The American Red Cross opened emergency shelters in Springtown and Mineral Wells and arranged hotel stays for displaced families in Runaway Bay. The Salvation Army deployed Emergency Disaster Services teams to Wise, Parker, and Palo Pinto counties with relief supplies including cleanup kits, hygiene products, and water. FEMA is providing assistance guidance for affected residents.