The quick thinking of Jacksboro Elementary School staff likely saved lives as a tornado ripped through the town, taking direct aim at the campus. NBC 5’s Ben Russell explains.
An unconfirmed tornado Monday afternoon has left behind significant damage in Jacksboro, including at Jacksboro High School and Jacksboro Elementary School.
Officials in Jacksboro said Monday night that a debris field from the storm is at least two miles wide.
No one was seriously injured or killed.
Teams with The National Weather Service will survey damage in Jack County and other areas with storm damage, the weather service said Tuesday.
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Jacksboro ISD's facilities will remain closed through the week, including after-school practices and sporting events, the district said on its website.
Continuing Coverage: Jacksboro Storm Damage
Four people had to be rescued from a damaged home but were not seriously hurt.
The Jacksboro fire chief estimated Monday night that at least 60 to 80 homes were damaged in the storm.
The tornado hit Jacksboro ISD's elementary school just as students were to be dismissed, which meant the staff kept hundreds of students safe inside of the building in two interior hallways, while also helping rush arriving parents to safety inside of the building.
"It's just a miracle," said Scott Haynes, chief of the Jacksboro Police Department. "This campus did a great job, the faculty, staff - parents were lined up to pick up. They got everyone to get out and get in the hallways."
There are also reports that the Jacksboro Aminal Shelter took a direct hit from the same storm. When NBC 5 called the shelter, they told us Monday night that they were out surveying the damage.
There are also reports of trees blocking portions of Highway 380. Firefighters report major damage in the area of Highway 380 and FM 4 west of Jacksboro.
As of Monday night, the Faith Community Hospital in Jacksboro was operating on a backup generator but did not have any serious damage.
Emergency Shelter Opens
A shelter has been set up in Jacksboro for anyone who may need it at the Twin Lakes Activity Center located at 1114 TX-59. The Red Cross is currently at the shelter to assist anyone who may need it.
CONTINUING WEATHER COVERAGE
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See the latest weather forecast from NBC 5's team of Weather Experts below.
CONTINUING WEATHER COVERAGE
Stay up to date with the latest weather forecast from NBC 5's team of Weather Experts by clicking here or by watching the video below.
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