Severe thunderstorms sweeping across North Texas on Tuesday left multiple people injured and caused widespread damage in and around Mineral Wells, officials said.
A tornado was confirmed near the city during the evening as storms moved through the region, prompting a Tornado Warning in Palo Pinto County. The weather event was observed around 5 p.m., with the National Weather Service confirming a tornado along Highway 180 about three miles east of Mineral Wells at approximately 5:10 p.m.
City officials said deputies responded to multiple reports of injuries, though the total number has not been released. Authorities emphasized that none of the reported injuries are critical. At least two people were transported to a hospital for treatment, while others with minor injuries were treated at the scene, according to Fire Chief Ryan Dunn. No fatalities or missing persons have been reported.
Storm damage was reported across a broad area, with some structures destroyed. Officials said the damage path appeared to begin near the northeast side of the Country Club Estates neighborhood and extend southeast toward the National Vietnam War Museum, a stretch of just under three miles.
The storms tore roofs from homes, flattened buildings, and scattered debris across streets. Multiple homes and businesses were damaged, leaving some families displaced. Downed power lines and outages were also reported, including along East Hubbard Street near Highway 180.
Drone footage posted by social media user Aaron Rigsby shows the destruction on the city’s eastern side following the tornado.
Authorities warned residents to avoid heavily damaged areas, particularly in parts of the city’s industrial zone where hazards remain. A 10 p.m. curfew was implemented to protect affected neighborhoods and secure property.
“We’re going to get through this,” Police Chief Tim Denison said, WFAA reported. “We’re going to be there for them.”
An emergency shelter was opened at Mineral Wells High School, where the American Red Cross is assisting residents in need of housing and support. Classes will resume as usual on Wednesday, Mineral Wells ISD confirmed.
City officials urged residents to stay home and avoid travel in the hardest-hit areas, specifically along the Highway 180 corridor between Country Club Estates and Lake Mineral Wells State Park.
The storms were part of a larger system that moved southeast across North Texas, bringing large hail, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall. Meteorologists said the system could continue into neighboring states, raising the risk of additional severe weather.
The latest damage comes just days after earlier tornado-producing storms in North Texas caused a fatality and displaced families, compounding recovery efforts across the region.
