Mineral Wells, Texas – Thunderstorms swept through parts of the US state of Texas on Tuesday, sending at least two people to the hospital, as strong winds tore off roofs, flattened buildings and scattered debris into the air.
Many homes and businesses were damaged and families were displaced in Mineral Wells, a small city about 45 miles (72 kilometers) west of Fort Worth. Two people were taken to the hospital while others were treated for minor injuries at the scene, according to Ryan Dunn, the city’s fire chief. There were no immediate reports of deaths or missing people.
Dunn warned people to stay away from the industrial area as there was “severe damage and significant hazards spread along the roads”.
The wild weather came a few days after A.J A tornado-producing thunderstorm It left at least two people dead in North Texas and displaced at least 20 families.
Tuesday’s thunderstorms, including at least one unconfirmed tornado, were caused by large storm cells that were drifting southeast from north-central Texas, National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Hurley said.
Storms continued Tuesday night as they moved across Texas and into Arkansas and Mississippi, according to the National Weather Service. The agency said the storms could produce hail larger than 2 inches (5 cm), damaging winds and some tornadoes.
In Mineral Wells, streets were left littered with fallen trees and other debris. The city imposed a curfew at 10 p.m., and it will be lifted at daylight as authorities continue to assess the damage, said Tim Dennison, the city’s police chief.
He said the curfew aims to “make sure people are kept out of the areas and try to help these victims get out and keep their personal belongings safe.”
Officials directed anyone needing help to the local high school, where the Red Cross was based.