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Two Tornadoes Strike Wharton County, Displacing Family of Nine and Prompting GoFundMe Campaign for Repairs

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Published on June 14, 2025
Two Tornadoes Strike Wharton County, Displacing Family of Nine and Prompting GoFundMe Campaign for RepairsSource: Unsplash/Greg Johnson

Wharton County, Texas was hit by two tornadoes in the early hours of Thursday morning, causing significant damage to property, including a family of nine who have been left without a home. The first tornado, categorized as an EF-1 with winds reaching 100 mph, was reported to have touched down at 3:05 a.m., crossing northeastern county roads. Meanwhile, at 3:20 a.m., an EF-0 tornado touched down east of Burr with 75 mph winds, tearing a roof off an older shed, as confirmed by FOX 26 Houston.

While no injuries were reported, the family, struggling to face the aftermath with a brave face, have had their world turned upside down. With a roof and interior in need of repairs, the family took to GoFundMe to appeal for support. Selena Moreno, in a statement obtained by KHOU 11, shared that they're "incredibly grateful that our family is safe," but the disaster has caused serious damage to their home.

Moreno detailed that the funds raised through their GoFundMe campaign will be used for repairing their home's roof and interior, replacing damaged belongings, and covering emergency expenses for her children's needs. "This unexpected disaster has turned our world upside down," Moreno posted on the crowdfunding page, emphasizing the overwhelming financial strain their family is experiencing due to repairs, temporary housing, and lost income, as detailed by KHOU 11.

As South Texas continues to be threatened by severe weather with a risk of flooding, local officials and the National Weather Service are maintaining vigilance. The region has been hit by persistent storms, leading to Flash Flood Warnings and Flood Advisories for multiple counties. Despite the severity of the storms, residents like the Moreno family are left tallying the damages and seeking assistance, a testament to the resilience and solidarity often found in times of natural calamities, according to FOX 26 Houston.