Severe Storms Lead to Flash Flooding and Power Outages in Dallas

Dallas, Texas – Severe Storms Cause Flash Flooding and Power Outages

A line of strong storms swept through North Texas on Sunday night, bringing gusty winds, torrential downpours, and widespread lightning. As a result, flash flooding and power outages were reported across multiple regions, particularly in Dallas and Tarrant counties, where flood warnings were effective until 3 a.m. Monday.

Residents experienced impassable streets due to flooding, prompting urgent safety concerns. Flash flooding alerts were in effect for various locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Garland, Irving, Grand Prairie, Mesquite, Carrollton, Richardson, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Mansfield, Rowlett, Euless, Desoto, Bedford, Grapevine, Cedar Hill, Haltom City, and Wylie. Meanwhile, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remained active until 4 a.m. for several counties in north-central Texas, including Ellis, Hood, Johnson, and Navarro.

Storm Intensity and Impact

The Dallas-Fort Worth area experienced winds reaching speeds of up to 70 mph during the height of the storm. Although no injuries or significant storm damage were reported immediately, Oncor reported that approximately 88,000 electrical customers were without power as of 1 a.m. Monday. Earlier in the evening, some regions were placed under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 11 p.m., and a Tornado Warning was issued for Tarrant, Hood, Johnson, and Parker counties until 11:45 p.m., although it expired early around 11:20 p.m. Unconfirmed reports of a tornado were received from southeastern Grayson County, where a Tornado Warning had been in effect until 10:15 p.m.

The storms not only brought heavy rainfall and winds but also raised concerns over the potential for additional severe weather, including damaging wind gusts exceeding 80 mph and large hail. As a result, delays of up to 30 minutes were reported at DFW International Airport and Dallas Love Field.

Public Safety and Advisories

Residents were urged to ensure they had multiple methods for receiving weather alerts and to establish a shelter plan in preparation for changing conditions. Meteorologists indicated ongoing unsettled weather patterns are expected to persist into the work week, with daily chances for more storms. Afternoon temperatures are anticipated to peak in the 80s throughout the upcoming week.

Historical Context

The current weather situation is reminiscent of a high risk for severe weather previously noted over two years ago, classified as level 4 out of a possible 5 by the Storm Prediction Center. The community is advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential severe weather in the coming days.