More than 55K Without Power in Central Texas

WACO, Texas (KWTX) – Roughly 55,000 people were without power Thursday morning following strong storms and a confirmed tornado in Central Texas.

According to the Oncor power outage map, the bulk of the power problems were in the Waco, Killeen, and Temple areas.

The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado touched down in the city of Temple Wednesday evening.

Emergency crews told News 10, there have been no deaths or injuries reported in connection with the weather.

In terms of restoring power, Oncor said it has teams assessing the damage, making repairs, and the lights should come back on by Thursday 9:30 p.m.

The agency said the severe storms produced damaging wind gusts, leading to electric poles and towers being damaged, trees toppled, and branches impacting the electrical equipment.

As Oncor crews work, and residents assess their own damage, the agency warns the public about being cautious around downed power lines.

It said, to keep pets and others away from them and call 911 immediately.

Since the potential for the line being energized, it reminds that anything touching it, such as a tree branch, could shock you.

“Do not attempt to remove debris and tree limbs from areas near power lines,” said Oncor.

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