Severe thunderstorms with 80 mph wind gusts and large hail caused widespread power outages in Dallas-Fort Worth. Over 750,000 customers were affected, with Dallas County the hardest hit. Oncor is working to safely restore power. More storms and extreme heat are expected in the coming days, adding to concerns about restoration efforts and public safety.
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Severe weather is affecting the entire Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area and surrounding areas, with widespread severe thunderstorms, large hail, and wind gusts up to 80 mph. Power outageThe region is in dire straits as hurricane-force winds and tornadoes threaten, with the storm arriving early Tuesday morning.
Response and Public Safety Measures
Oncol Oncor mobilized teams to quickly and safely restore power. The company’s website states, “The safety of our teams and the public is Oncor’s top priority.” Residents are encouraged to report outages by texting OUT to 66267, using the MyOncor app, clicking “Report an Outage” on the map, or calling 888-313-4747.
Oncor also urges the public to call 911 immediately and stay away if they come across any hazards, such as downed power lines.
Extent of damage and ongoing risk
The early morning storms, coupled with dangerous winds and hail, have already left a trail of devastation across North Texas. Meteorologist Steve Fano reported that Collin, Dallas and Kaufman counties were particularly hard hit. WFAA, an ABC affiliate in Dallas, commented on social media that “power lines were sparking during severe storms in Dallas early this morning.”
Texas has been hit by extreme weather over the past few weeks, including deadly tornadoes and heavy rains that caused flooding, and areas are still recovering from the effects of at least seven people found dead over Memorial Day weekend.
Heatwaves exacerbate the crisis
To make matters worse, Texas Extreme heat The waves are rolling in and temperatures are soaring into triple digits. The National Weather Service has already issued heat warnings, especially for areas of West Texas like Brewster Country and the Davis Mountains, where temperatures could reach 110 degrees.
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed and follow issued safety guidelines to help protect themselves and their loved ones from the deadly combination of storm and extreme heat.