As of Sunday morning, at least 11 people have been confirmed killed by several massive tornadoes that ravaged the Dallas area Saturday night, the latest tragedy in what has become a week-long outbreak of severe weather.
Reports indicate that eight of the deaths occurred in Garland, a large city northeast of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. At least three of the five victims were believed to be in vehicles at the time. Two additional deaths occurred about 17 miles to the north in unincorporated Copeville when a gas station was destroyed by winds likely associated with the same tornado that struck Garland minutes earlier. The Dallas Morning News reported one of those killed was an infant in Blue Ridge.
WFAA-TV in Dallas showed video of damage to homes, a church and vehicles in Garland from what is believed to be a separate tornado that struck Glenn Heights. In total, about 600 structures were damaged by the twisters and more than 60 injuries have been reported.
The National Weather Services said the tornado that hit Garland has been rated an EF4. Winds in an EF4 tornado can reach 200 mph. It was the first EF4 tornado in Dallas County since 1950.
Search and rescue efforts continue Sunday in the damaged areas east and northeast of Dallas. There are currently no reports of missing persons in Garland, but authorities will continue their search. In Rowlett, 23 injuries were reported, and the primary and secondary search for survivors has been completed.
How You Can Help
Pray
Please pray for those impacted by these devastating storms and for those that lost loved ones. Pray that the comfort and peace of God strengthen and surround them as they begin the slow process of recovery.
Donate
The Mercury One team is already swinging into action in Texas. If you are able, please make a financial donation to the Mercury One Disaster Relief Fund. As with all donations made to Mercury One, 100% of your tax-deductible donation will go directly to those displaced and impacted by these devastating storms.
Featured Image: The massive EF4 tornado that ripped through North Texas on Saturday, December 26, 2015.