This post summarizes a major severe weather event that struck southeastern Texas on October 25, 2025, and the preceding storms that affected the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It covers observed wind gusts, widespread power outages, significant rainfall and flash flood concerns, the National Weather Service (NWS) tornado investigation, and the forecasted eastward progression of the storm system into Louisiana and the Gulf Coast.
Storm system overview and timing
The storm complex produced multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms from Friday night into Saturday, impacting a broad swath of Texas. This was a high-wind, high-rainfall system driven by strong low-level shear and a vigorous mid-level jet that allowed storms to intensify rapidly and produce damaging straight-line winds.
Thunderstorms first battered the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex Friday night before advancing southeast to the Houston area early Saturday. The setup included ample low-level moisture and instability, which combined with strong forcing to create organized wind-producing convection.
Observed winds, tornado inquiry, and rainfall
Wind observations were notable across the region. The Houston metro saw sustained severe gusts between 45 and 60 mph, with a measured 59 mph gust downtown and a reported 64 mph gust in Hempstead.
North and west, the Dallas-Fort Worth area experienced gusts up to 67 mph in Fort Worth. A radar-indicated rotation prompted an NWS investigation south of Fort Worth.
After surveying the damage, the NWS concluded the scene was consistent with straight-line winds up to 85 mph rather than a tornado. Straight-line winds can produce concentrated damage comparable to weak tornadoes, particularly when microbursts are involved.
Heavy rain accompanied the storms. Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport recorded 3.10 inches of rain, establishing a daily rainfall record and marking one of the wettest October days in decades.
Flood Watches were issued across much of eastern Texas, with forecasts of 2–4 inches of additional rain and isolated amounts up to 6 inches. This elevated flash flood risk in urban and low-lying areas.
Impacts: outages, structural damage, and fires
The human and infrastructure impacts were immediate. By dawn Saturday, approximately 260,000 customers were without power across southeastern Texas, including more than 150,000 outages in Houston.
Downed trees and power lines were widespread, and numerous roofs and exterior building elements sustained damage. Earlier in the event, lightning-heavy storms in the Dallas suburbs ignited six house fires.
Central and south-central Fort Worth reported tree and structural damage from the high winds. These localized ignition events emphasize that severe thunderstorms threaten more than just wind and water — lightning can cause secondary disasters.
Key statistics and impacts:
Forecast trajectory and preparedness advice
Forecasters warned additional severe storms could continue through Saturday before shifting eastward into Louisiana and the Gulf Coast on Sunday. The primary threats included damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and the potential for tornadoes embedded in the convective line as it matures and interacts with coastal boundaries.
Practical guidance for residents and emergency managers: secure loose outdoor items. Avoid driving through flooded roadways.
Prepare for long-duration outages, especially for critical medical needs. Monitor NWS watches and warnings.
In urban areas, rapid runoff can make flash flooding unexpectedly dangerous. Never underestimate floodwater depth or current strength.
Here is the source article for this story: 260,000 without power in Texas as severe thunderstorms sweep Houston area