Severe Storms Slam West Texas, Eastern New Mexico With Tornadoes, Hail, and Power Outages

On Thursday night, a formidable line of severe thunderstorms swept through eastern New Mexico and West Texas, triggering tornado warnings and resulting in extensive damage across multiple counties. The National Weather Service in Lubbock has issued a tornado watch that impacts over 850,000 residents and 44 hospitals. Forecasts indicate the potential for tornadoes, winds reaching speeds of 80 mph, and hailstones as large as softballs.

Authorities have confirmed the occurrence of multiple tornadoes throughout the region, with twin tornadoes reported near Reese Center at approximately 7:30 p.m. Significant damage has been reported in western Lubbock and Hockley counties, according to the National Weather Service. A tractor-trailer has overturned on U.S. 385 in northern Hockley County, reportedly as a result of a tornado. Additionally, multiple utility poles have been snapped throughout the region.

According to Cole Kirkland, the Emergency Management Coordinator for Levelland-Hockley County, one individual has been confirmed injured and has been transported to the hospital. In Hockley County, at least two structures have reportedly suffered direct impacts from a tornado, while additional homes and properties may have been impacted by hail and strong winds.

Lubbock County Judge Curtis Parrish has confirmed that the West Carlisle Volunteer Fire Department's headquarters have sustained damage. Rescue crews have been dispatched to aid in the storm response efforts in Hockley County.

As of 9:10 p.m., thousands of residents found themselves without power while crews from Xcel Energy and Lubbock Power & Light were actively engaged in efforts to restore service. Officials in Levelland are calling on residents to conserve water following damage to a local substation caused by recent storms.

As of late Thursday night, authorities confirmed that there had been no reported fatalities despite the intensity of the storms. Emergency personnel are actively evaluating damages and addressing calls as the severe weather threat gradually recedes from the area.

The Outdoor Warning System in Lubbock was utilized for the first time in a real-world situation, successfully alerting residents to seek shelter. This incident highlights the crucial role of early warning systems in the face of the increasing frequency of severe weather events.

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