Walnut-sized hail expected; tornado hits North Texas on Sunday

At 12:04 a.m. on Sunday, the National Weather Service issued an updated tornado warning that is in effect until 12:15 a.m. The warning applies to Collin, Fannin and Hunt counties.

The approaching storm is expected to bring hailstones (1.5 inches) in size.

“At 12:03 a.m., a severe thunderstorm, capable of producing a tornado, was identified near Celeste, 16 miles northwest of Greenville, moving east at 40 mph,” the NWS said. “Flying debris will be dangerous to people without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. There will be damage to roofs, windows and vehicles. Tree damage is likely.”

The tornado is expected to reach Celeste around 12:10 a.m.

Other places affected by this tornado storm include Westminster, Kellogg, Frognot, Blue Ridge, Kingston, Bailey and Nobility.

The NWS adds: “Take cover immediately! Get to an interior room on the lowest floor of a stable building and avoid windows. If you are outdoors or in a vehicle, get to the nearest stable shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Tornadoes are extremely difficult to see and confirm at night. Do not wait to see or hear the tornado. Take cover immediately!”

This warning is valid until 00:15

Tips for finding shelter during a tornado

According to the NWS, quick action is key to staying safe during a tornado. Continue listening to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio station to stay up to date on tornado watches and warnings.

• If you are in a building: If you are affected by a tornado warning, immediately seek shelter in your basement, a safe room, or an indoor space without windows. If you have enough time, take your pets with you.

• If you are at your workplace or school: Follow tornado drill instructions and go to the designated tornado shelter. Stay away from windows and avoid large open spaces such as cafeterias, gymnasiums or auditoriums.

• If you are outdoors: If a tornado is approaching, seek shelter in a sturdy building. Remember that sheds, storage units, RVs and tents are not safe alternatives.

• If you are in a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not a safe option. Drive to the nearest shelter. If you cannot reach a safe shelter, either crouch down in your car and protect your head, or exit your vehicle and seek shelter in a ditch or ravine.

Do you have an emergency kit ready in case of a tornado?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends keeping the following items in a basic disaster supply:

• Water, one gallon per person for at least three days

• Food, at least a three-day supply

• Mobile phone with chargers and spare battery

• Battery-operated or hand-crank radio

• Flashlight

• First aid kit

• Whistle

• Dust mask to filter contaminated air

• Plastic film and insulation tape for shelter

• Wet wipes, garbage bags and plastic ties

• Manual can opener for food

• Local maps

Source: National Weather Service