Severe Storms Trigger Tornado and Flood Alerts in Texas, Hundreds of Flights Canceled

Texas under tornado watch

Storms force flight cancellations

Thousands lose power in Dallas

A day of extreme weather has millions of Texas residents on high alert this Tuesday, as tornado warnings, flash flood threats, and widespread airport disruptions grip the state.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued tornado alerts for at least 12 counties in southeastern Texas—including Houston and Austin—where heavy rainfall is also expected.

Meteorologists warned that the weather system could produce not only torrential downpours, but also “intense” tornadoes, large hail, and dangerous wind gusts.

This scenario has prompted emergency response plans and constant monitoring across the region.

Thousands Without Power in Northern Texas Due to Extreme Weather

Texas under tornado watch – Photo: Shutterstock

Further north, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, severe thunderstorm warnings and elevated flood risks are also in effect.

The storm system has already left thousands without electricity across Ellis, Dallas, Tarrant, and Collin counties.

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Unstable atmospheric conditions, combined with unusually high humidity from the Gulf of Mexico, have fueled the strength of the storms.

According to the NWS, an “anomalously high moisture inflow” is moving northeast, extending the impact into parts of Louisiana.

Mass Flight Cancellations Due to Dangerous Weather

This mass of warm, humid air is driving the extreme weather affecting the southern U.S. this week.

The storm’s impact quickly reached air travel, especially at Texas’s major airports.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport was hit hardest, with roughly 950 flight cancellations throughout the day.

Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport also saw delays and cancellations due to the storms.

The situation created major disruptions for thousands of travelers, many of whom were stranded without clear departure times.

Long lines, rebookings, and constant loudspeaker announcements filled airport terminals as passengers scrambled to make alternate arrangements amid the storm.

Airport authorities are urging travelers to check their flight status with their airlines before heading to the airport.

Meanwhile, emergency teams in Texas remain on alert in residential neighborhoods and flood-prone areas.

Meteorologists advise Texas residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to shelter in place if tornado warnings are issued.

The NWS emphasized that these extreme conditions may persist for several more hours, particularly in eastern and southern Texas.

Beyond immediate threats, officials are warning of potential water accumulation that could overwhelm drainage systems and lead to more power outages.

Residents are encouraged to prepare emergency kits with non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and clean drinking water.

Authorities Urge Caution Amid Dangerous Conditions

Drivers are reminded not to attempt crossing flooded roads, as water depth is often deceptive and can sweep away vehicles.

On social media, Texans have shared images of hail, flooded streets, and widespread blackouts.

The most dramatic images come from the Dallas area, where strong wind gusts reportedly uprooted trees and damaged lightweight structures.

Coordinated efforts between weather services, local authorities, and the public will be crucial in minimizing the impact of this powerful storm in Texas, according to EFE.