Many meteorologists knew severe storms would pass over the Dallas area on Tuesday afternoon. What surprised many people though is the fact that as much as twelve tornadoes would hammer many parts of North Texas, including the City of Irving.
Eric Martello, a senior meteorologist of the National Weather Service stated, “preliminary estimates were that six to 12 tornadoes were reported in North Texas”.
While the reports of a tornado touching ground in Irving haven't been confirmed, it is obvious that damaging winds took a huge toll on many businesses and residences.
In an email, Public Information Officer John Argumaniz of the Irving Police Department said, "No injuries reported. There were some reports of a tornado but we can't confirm that right now."
Around the 1600 block of Esters Rd. residents from apartment complexes like Foxborough and Meadowwood saw trees split in half and branches tossed onto the streets.
Shortly after the worst of the storm passed through the city about three police squad cars were seen parked in front of the Creekwood Apartments on W. Pioneer Dr. The police officers and residents were helping clear debris caused by the strong winds.
On that same street inside the Starplex Cinemas, many movie goers expecting to enjoy the day were welcomed outside with damaged cars. Most vehicles had some, if not all windows completely shattered. The winds were so strong that one car was actually moved about three feet from its original position. The theater itself also received heavy damage on the exterior.
Just a few yards away at the Walmart Supercenter on 4100 W. Airport Frwy. shopping carts were overturned across the parking lot while onlookers stared with disbelief. Shoppers who were inside Walmart at the time the storm hit were evacuated to the back of the store.
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Local resident of Irving, Carmen Aranda said, “Having lived here for more than fifteen years, this without a doubt is one of the worst storms I have ever experienced."
It hasn't been since 2009 that the city has seen severe damage like this due to a storm. Many will never forget that year, when strong winds ripped through the Dallas Cowboys practice facility in Valley Ranch, eventually causing that facility to collapse.
