At least 3 people killed and 75 others injured as ‘horrific’ tornado hits Perryton, Texas: Debris swirls through the air as homes are destroyed
- Perryton Fire Chief Paul Dutcher reported that at least three people were killed in the tornado, which struck at 5:10 p.m.
- Footage revealed the devastation as parts of the city were left in ruins by the tornado – as emergency services searched for survivors among the rubble
A tornado in the Texas town of Perryton killed at least three people and injured more than 75 others on Thursday.
Footage revealed the devastation as parts of the town were left in ruins by the twister – as rescue crews searched for survivors among the broken houses and rubble.
“It’s bad, it’s very bad. It’s nonstop crazy. It couldn’t have hit a more vulnerable spot,” said Mayor Kerry Symons, adding that he wouldn’t be able to say until Friday morning how many people were killed.
Perryton Fire Chief Paul Dutcher reported that at least three people were killed in the tornado, which struck at 5:10 p.m.
A tornado in the Texas town of Perryton killed at least three people and injured more than 75 others on Thursday.
A view of a damaged site in Perryton after the town was hit by a tornado, in Texas
Debris swirls through the air as the city is hit by a tornado
Ochiltree General Hospital in Perryton, a town of 8,000, had yet to receive any deaths.
But some people with life-threatening injuries were transferred to larger medical centers in Amarillo, said Debbie Beck, the hospital’s chief financial officer.
Beck said up to 100 people with injuries ranging from scrapes to a collapsed lung were treated at the hospital in Perryton.
At least 30 caravans were damaged or destroyed in Perryton, and firefighters were still rescuing victims at 6pm
Officials say the city may have been hit by three tornadoes.
Three people died and dozens more were injured in the natural disaster
Trees break and collapse after the twister
Footage revealed the devastation as parts of the city were left in ruins by the tornado – as rescue crews searched for survivors
Vehicles become trapped by a blockage caused by a tornado in the town of Perryton, Texas
Houses were torn apart and left in ruins, while vehicles were overturned and trees were broken in half.
“Jane and I are praying for the people of Perryton tonight. I am in contact with Mayor Symons and this tragedy is being closely watched by myself and my entire staff,” U.S. Representative Ronny Jackson, a Republican from Texas, said on Twitter.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott said in a written statement that he was sending state emergency response teams to the area, including resources from an emergency medical task force, along with search and rescue teams.
Abbott said, “The State of Texas is rapidly deploying critical emergency resources to provide all necessary support and assistance to protect Texans and help those affected by tornadoes in Perryton.
“I encourage all Texans to heed guidance from state and local officials and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.
“We remain ready to rapidly provide any additional resources needed over the course of this storm.
“I ask all Texans to join Cecilia and me in praying for our fellow Texans affected by this horrific storm. Stay safe, Texas.”
Rep. Four Price said, “Please keep the Perryton community in your prayers. Many structures are damaged.’