A severe thunderstorm warning was active yesterday afternoon for parts of Denton and Wise counties as a cluster of strong storms rolled through the northern Dallas-Fort Worth suburbs. The system brought quarter-size hail, damaging wind gusts, and near-constant cloud-to-ground lightning that triggered safety alerts for small towns and drivers caught on the roads.
The warning was issued at 3:06 p.m. and remained in place until 3:45 p.m., according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Citing National Weather Service information, the report noted that the main storm cell was located near Justin, about 10 miles northwest of Trophy Club, and was drifting northwest at around 5 mph.
The National Weather Service advised that the storm featured quarter-size hail (about 1 inch in diameter) and wind gusts up to 60 mph, conditions that can damage vehicles, roofs, and trees, according to the National Weather Service Fort Worth. Forecasters also highlighted heavy rainfall that could cause localized flash flooding and stressed the danger from ongoing lightning strikes.
Roads and neighborhoods in the path
The warning zone included the communities of New Fairview, Ponder, Dish, Newark, Marshall Creek, and Westlake, and it specifically covered Interstate 35W between mile markers 68 and 78, the Star-Telegram reported. Drivers were told to expect delays, reduce speed in downpours, and steer clear of standing water while emergency crews kept an eye on the evolving conditions.
Safety guidance
“For your protection, get inside a sturdy structure and stay away from windows,” the National Weather Service Fort Worth advised, reiterating that lightning can be deadly and warning motorists not to drive through flooded roadways. Residents were urged to keep weather alerts turned on and follow guidance from local officials for any additional warnings or updates.
