At least seven dead after tornado warnings in Cooke County, other parts of North Texas

At least seven dead after tornado warnings in Cooke County, other parts of North Texas 

Tornado texas

Cooke County authorities report a confirmed death toll of at least seven individuals following late Saturday tornado warnings, with concerns that the number of casualties may increase. Severe weather, possibly a tornado, tore through parts of Cooke and Denton counties in North Texas late Saturday night, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least seven individuals, including children. Cooke County Sheriff Ray Sappington, speaking to The Associated Press, confirmed that among the victims were three family members in a home near Valley View. Sappington expressed grim concern that the death toll might escalate, citing the severe devastation witnessed, including a house reduced to debris. Additionally, he stated that at least two children remain unaccounted for. 

Overnight into Sunday, severe storms ravaged the region, claiming the lives of at least two individuals each in Arkansas and Oklahoma, adding to the toll of devastation caused by tornadoes, particularly in the Midwest. In Cooke County, authorities reported significant damage to an AP Travel Center and manufactured homes in a nearby RV park, with cars overturned on Interstate 35. Kendall Cross, a resident near Valley View, recounted seeking shelter with her dogs during the tornado and expressed gratitude for minimal property damage. She joined others in providing assistance at Valley View United Methodist Church, where Pastor Beate Hall coordinated relief efforts. The church, initially serving as a sanctuary, now offers essential supplies and support for those affected.

 

Hall described her own harrowing experience during the storm and acknowledged the profound losses suffered by members of the Valley View community. Recovery efforts are underway, involving various organizations and community leaders, including the John Fortenberry Community Center, which is accepting donations. In Denton County, emergency responders worked tirelessly to rescue individuals trapped at Lake Ray Roberts Marina, where significant damage was reported, including overturned RVs and damaged boat houses. Despite widespread power outages affecting around 1,200 residents in Pilot Point, communities are rallying together to provide aid and support in the aftermath of the disaster. 

The Denton County Office of Emergency Management confirmed a tornado that crossed over Interstate 35 between Sanger and Valley View on Saturday night. This storm system moved eastward across northern Denton County, leading to tornadic activity forming over Ray Roberts Lake State Park and Pilot Point, as reported by the National Weather Service in Fort Worth. By 11:45 p.m. Saturday, the tornado warning had been canceled by the Denton County Office of Emergency Management. Earlier that evening, the Denton Fire Department activated outdoor warning sirens in response to the tornado warning touching the north side of the city limits. 

Collin County Judge Chris Hill issued a disaster declaration on Sunday following reports of tornado damage in and around Celina. Though several homes were destroyed, and approximately 15,000 residents experienced power outages overnight, there were thankfully no reports of serious injuries or fatalities.