EF2 tornado rips through Temple, homes destroyed and dozens injured

In Central Texas, cleanup efforts persisted on Thursday following the devastating storms.

The city of Temple, located off of I-35, bore the brunt of the destruction, with thousands still without power nearly 24 hours after a tornado struck the downtown area.

“It’s unprecedented for Temple. We don’t see events like this often,” remarked John Brascheras.

Although Brascheras resides in Moody, just up the road from Temple, he and his wife Pam ventured into town for errands, only to find most stores shuttered.

In response to the widespread damage, the city of Temple declared a disaster. The National Weather Service confirmed that the tornado, which caused tree and light pole damage, was classified as an EF2, with wind speeds reaching 120 mph.

Pam expressed the need to witness the devastation firsthand. Along Adams Street, west of Green Hollow Drive, a swath of destruction was evident.

Near Honeysuckle and Verbena Drive, the remnants of a daycare lay exposed, its roof and wall torn away.

“I couldn’t help but think about the daycare, the employees, and the children enduring this chaos. All the kids want is to be with their parents,” Pam reflected.

Richard Perez, a resident of Temple, described the area as a focal point of the city.

“It’s unsettling to witness. The devastation is profound,” Perez remarked.

He and his daughter Evelyn Perez were on the road when they glimpsed the tornado on Wednesday afternoon.

“It was terrifying. The sound was reminiscent of sirens. I was frightened the whole night,” Evelyn recounted.

According to city officials, approximately 30 individuals sustained injuries, but no fatalities were reported.

“All structures, whether minor or severely damaged, have been searched and cleared by first responders,” the city stated in a Thursday afternoon update.

Residents were advised to avoid affected areas and refrain from traveling on roads, allowing contractors to commence debris removal.

“The cleanup effort is anticipated to commence early next week, following thorough assessment and mobilization,” the city added.