Runaway Bay Tornado Update
- City of Runaway Bay
- Apr 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 28
EF-2 Tornado Strikes Runaway Bay | Recovery Efforts Continue
On the night of Saturday, April 25, 2026, an EF-2 tornado touched down in the Runaway Bay area, leaving a path of destruction across our community. The National Weather Service has now confirmed the tornado had peak winds of approximately 135 mph.
As daylight broke Sunday morning, emergency crews began gaining a clearer picture of the damage.
At this time:
One fatality has been confirmed.
Our hearts and prayers are with that family during this incredibly difficult time.
At least six individuals were treated or transported by Wise County EMS for storm-related injuries.
More than 20 families have been displaced due to significant damage to homes.
Major damage has been reported in areas near Cimmarron Trail and Jasper Creek Road. This remains an active emergency response scene, and everyone is asked to avoid the area to allow first responders and utility crews safe access.
Over 64 utility poles were reported down, causing widespread power outages and access issues.
Emergency responders worked throughout the night and continue to work around the clock to clear debris, restore access, and assist residents in need.
The Mayor and the entire City Council are working as a team to develop and implement a coordinated, comprehensive response. City leadership is prioritizing recovery efforts, streamlining permitting for repairs, exploring all available state and federal resources, and planning for long-term rebuilding.
Unified Emergency Response
The City of Runaway Bay, in close coordination with Wise County and numerous volunteer organizations, mobilized quickly to provide immediate assistance. Teams are working to clear debris, assess damage, offer temporary shelter, distribute essential supplies, and ensure those in need receive food, water, and medical support.
A Unified Command structure was quickly established to coordinate response efforts among:
Wise County officials
City of Runaway Bay leadership
Fire departments and EMS agencies
Law enforcement
Utility providers
Texas Division of Emergency Management
Texas Task Force 2
American Red Cross and other support teams
Texas Task Force 2 has assisted with organized search and rescue efforts, while the Texas Division of Emergency Management’s Damage Assessment Team is helping verify impacts across the community.
The National Weather Service was also on-site Sunday morning surveying damage to confirm storm intensity and track the tornado’s path.
Disaster Declaration Issued
Wise County Judge J.D. Clark has issued a Local Disaster Declaration for Wise County, allowing access to additional state and federal recovery resources.
This declaration helps expedite emergency response operations and opens pathways for relief programs and funding.
How Residents Can Help Recovery Efforts
Residents with damage to homes or businesses are encouraged to complete the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) survey.
These self-reported surveys help local and state officials understand the extent of damage and connect impacted Texans with available recovery resources.
iSTAT surveys are available in English and Spanish here:damage.tdem.texas.gov
Relief Resources
In the immediate aftermath of the storm, a Reunification Center was opened at the Runaway Bay Event Center to assist residents and reconnect families. That center has since been decommissioned once families were reunited.
The Runaway Bay Event Center continues to serve as a resource hub for storm-affected residents.
Relief efforts have included:
Free hot meals provided by Texans on Mission
Food, toiletries, and basic supplies for affected residents
Assistance for first responders and utility crews working extended hours
Volunteer & Donation Information
How You Can Help
Many residents have reached out asking how they can support those affected by the storm.
The United Way of Wise County is now accepting disaster relief donations for western Wise County, with every dollar staying local to help impacted families recover.
Residents who wish to contribute can scan the QR code on the donation flyer or DONATE HERE Follow updates from the Wise County Office of Emergency Management for official donation and assistance opportunities.
Juan Madrid lost his life in the tornado on Saturday night. A donation fund for his family has been set up through Acts 4 Others, a legitimate local non-profit, so the funds are ensured to go to the family. If it’s on your heart to donate, please visit the link below.
As additional needs are identified, more opportunities to volunteer, donate supplies, or provide support may be announced through official City and County channels.
A Community Responding Together
Local volunteers, faith-based groups, charitable organizations, first responders, utility workers, and partner agencies have stepped up in remarkable ways. Delivering aid, opening their doors, offering comfort, and working tirelessly through the night and into the days following this disaster. We also want to recognize the many residents who have stepped up. Checking on neighbors, offering shelter, donating supplies, sharing critical information, and asking how they can help.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by the storm and needs assistance, please reach out through the Runaway Bay Bulletin, the City of Runaway Bay Facebook page, or by calling City Hall at (940) 575-4745.
As additional needs are identified, more opportunities to volunteer, donate supplies, or provide support may be announced through official City and County channels.
Our goal is clear: to support every affected family as quickly and effectively as possible while keeping our community safe and informed every step of the way. Runaway Bay is a resilient community, and with the continued partnership of Wise County, our dedicated volunteers, and the strength of our neighbors, we will rebuild stronger than before.
Runaway Bay is strong, and together, we will recover.
Additional Coverage: https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/runaway-bay-death/4015673/
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