Severe Storms Sweep Fort Worth, Causing Widespread Power Outages

A powerful storm system battered Fort Worth overnight, knocking out power to over 50,000 homes and businesses as of Thursday morning. The National Weather Service confirmed wind gusts exceeding 70 mph, with hail up to 2 inches in diameter reported across Tarrant County.

Emergency crews are responding to downed trees and power lines, particularly in the city's northern neighborhoods. Oncor reported at least 200 separate outage incidents, with restoration times estimated between 6-12 hours for most areas.

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport recorded 3.2 inches of rain in a 6-hour period, causing minor flooding on access roads. FlightAware data shows 87 cancellations and 120 delays affecting Thursday morning travel.

The storm system is part of a larger pattern affecting Texas and Oklahoma this week. Meteorologists warn another round of severe weather could develop later Thursday afternoon, with the Storm Prediction Center maintaining a "slight risk" (level 2 of 5) for the region.

Local school districts including Fort Worth ISD and Keller ISD operated on normal schedules, though some after-school activities were canceled. Residents are advised to monitor weather alerts and avoid storm-damaged areas.

This weather event is trending nationally due to its intensity during what's typically a transitional period between spring and summer storm seasons. Climate researchers note such early-season severe storms have increased 18% in North Texas over the past decade.

Fort Worth officials opened two temporary cooling centers at community centers for residents without power. The American Red Cross is assessing potential need for emergency shelter as temperatures are forecast to reach 89°F later today.

Drivers should exercise caution, especially along Interstate-35W and Loop 820 where multiple high-water incidents were reported overnight. The Texas Department of Transportation has crews clearing debris from major thoroughfares.