IRVING, Texas – A powerful EF-1 tornado swept through Irving on Tuesday morning, causing significant damage to apartment complexes, businesses, and infrastructure. The storm downed power lines, uprooted trees, and forced the evacuation of hundreds of residents.
Despite the destruction, authorities have reported no major injuries.
Tornado Details and Impact
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the tornado reached wind speeds of up to 110 mph, with a path length of 0.42 miles and a width of 85 yards.
One of the hardest-hit areas was an apartment complex at West Pioneer and North O’Connor, which suffered a partial collapse. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The storm’s impact prompted the evacuation of approximately 350 people, including residents from two apartment complexes and several homes. Thousands were left without power as crews worked to assess and restore service.
Local schools were also affected. DeZavala Middle School remained closed due to safety concerns stemming from downed power lines and a gas leak, while Irving High School released students early.
Road Closures and Emergency Response
Authorities have restricted access to several roads in the affected areas:
- North O’Connor Road between Rock Island Road and Union Bower Road
- Pioneer Drive between McArthur Boulevard and Ada Street
Oncor, along with emergency response teams, is actively assessing the damage and working to restore power. A secondary building for the Irving Police Department also sustained significant roof damage.
‘It’s a War Zone’: Witness Accounts
Local business owners and residents described the aftermath as catastrophic.
Mike Amir, owner of a laundromat in the area, said the destruction was unlike anything he had seen before.
“It looks like a war zone. There used to be no tree here—now there’s a tree. That metal dumpster? It’s across the street,” he said. “This is going to be really tough for everyone, especially with all the lost groceries and damages.”
Irving Police Officer Anthony Alexander emphasized that residents should expect a prolonged recovery process.
“We just want residents to know that emergency services and fire personnel are constantly assessing the damage,” Alexander stated. “Once we determine that structures are safe, we’ll allow people to return, but there’s no set timeline yet.”
What’s Next?
For those displaced, the Georgia Farrow Recreation Center on Davis Drive has been opened as a temporary shelter.
City officials are urging residents to stay updated through social media as cleanup efforts continue and Oncor works to restore power.
