A large, damaging tornado caused significant damage in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex one year ago on October 20, 2019, leading to reports of injuries.
Here is a closer view of the tornado that touched down outside of Dallas, Texas last night. Hope everyone in the area is now safe this morning!
Posted by WeatherNation on Sunday, October 20, 2019
The tornado touched down around 7pm CDT near Dallas’ Love Field, or roughly eight miles northwest of downtown Dallas. It then stayed on the ground for approximately 10 miles, cutting through the heart of Dallas’ University Park neighborhood before crossing Interstate 635. The tornado then moved through the northern edge of Dallas County, including the suburbs of Richardson and Garland. A separate tornado warning was issued for the southern side of Dallas County as well, though that storm didn’t produce any immediate reports of tornadoes.
CONFIRMED tornado just north of downtown Dallas – this is likely moving right over @SMU's campus right now. Just east of Love Field:#TXwx pic.twitter.com/Nn8uZaOupl
— WeatherNation (@WeatherNation) October 21, 2019
By my rough count, the Dallas tornado produced a clear tornado debris signature (TDS – circled) for over 10 miles – as it trekked through the heart of America's 4th-most populated metro area. pic.twitter.com/32nQDzEhm3
— Chris Bianchi (@BianchiWeather) October 21, 2019
Widespread reports of damage began to circulate on social media, particularly on the north side of the city. Field Correspondent Brandon Clement surveyed the damage at first light. He describes the situation Monday morning:
Multiple Dallas ISD schools were closed the next day “due to safety concerns & power outages.” Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a disaster for 16 counties due to the twisters.
If you don't have a reason to travel in north Dallas, specifically near Dallas Love Field, Preston Hollow, and near the High-Five interchange, it is best to avoid. Lots of debris and power lines down. Significant damage to homes & businesses. Dallas FD working search & rescue.
— DFW Scanner (@DFWscanner) October 21, 2019