Severe weather wreaked havoc across North Texas and parts of Oklahoma on Saturday night, April 19, 2025, with multiple tornadoes reported and significant damage observed in various counties. The storms left neighborhoods in disarray, with homes and businesses affected by high winds and torrential rain.
In North Texas, tornadoes were spotted in Parker County, Jack County, Montague County, and Hood County. Weatherford experienced severe storm damage, particularly in two neighborhoods where roofs were torn off and debris scattered across streets. As of Sunday morning, April 20, many residents were left without power as crews began assessing the damage.
The National Weather Service confirmed that the initial supercell formed shortly after 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, leading to a tornado that impacted areas in Jack County before crossing over into Bowie and eventually the Red River. Reports indicated that two supercells in Parker County likely produced two tornadoes, with the National Weather Service planning to conduct an official damage assessment on Monday, April 21.
Meanwhile, the storms also brought devastating flooding to Oklahoma. In Moore, Oklahoma, at least two individuals, including a 12-year-old boy, lost their lives when their vehicle was swept away by floodwaters late Saturday evening. The Moore Police Department responded to reports of stranded vehicles and confirmed that one vehicle was swept under a bridge. Fortunately, most occupants were rescued, but the tragic loss has left the community mourning. The police described the flooding situation as "historical," with dozens of high-water rescues carried out across the city.
Powerful storms swept across portions of the Plains, with NOAA's Storm Prediction Center receiving over 120 storm reports on Saturday. The extreme weather was concentrated primarily in Texas and Oklahoma, with Jacksboro, Texas, among the hardest-hit areas. Images from the community showed extensive damage to buildings and debris scattered throughout the streets. Videos captured dramatic tornadoes touching down, including one near Hico, Texas, where a dark cloud was seen before the tornado formed.
In Pontotoc County, Oklahoma, as many as 30 people were displaced after a tornado damaged the Quality Inn. Reports of minor damage to homes and downed trees were also confirmed in Ada, where one person sustained injuries during the storm. The North Hills Shopping Center in Ada suffered significant damage, with many businesses affected. Emergency officials reported that debris from the tornado was airborne for at least 7-8 miles, indicating the storm's ferocity.
As the storms moved out, the tornado watch expired just before 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 20. While the immediate threat from severe weather diminished, lingering showers were expected to continue throughout the morning, with sunshine anticipated to return later in the day. However, the weather pattern remains unsettled, with more rounds of storms predicted for the upcoming week.
The forecast for North Texas indicates a chance of rain from Tuesday, April 22, through at least Friday, April 25, as the region prepares for additional storm systems. Residents are advised to stay alert and prepared for changing weather conditions as recovery efforts begin in the wake of this weekend's severe storms.
In the aftermath of the storms, local authorities and emergency services are working diligently to assess damage, restore power, and provide assistance to those affected. Community members are urged to check on neighbors and offer support as the recovery process begins.
