Fire Official: Injuries, Damage in Van Zandt County Following Storms

VAN ZANDT COUNTY — VAN ZANDT COUNTY — Van emergency crews and numerous Smith County fire departments responded to reports of damage and injuries in the Van area, following Sunday night’s severe storms. According to KETK, a confirmed tornado touched down in the area Sunday night, destroying homes and injuring numerous people. The National Weather Service says the warning was issued at 8:55 and Van Police reported a touch down at 9:00.

The National Weather Service announced Monday afternoon a preliminary rating of an EF-3 tornado touching down in the city of Van Sunday night. Winds reached 135-145 miles per hour.

The Red Cross says crews have determined that nearly 120 homes were destroyed or sustained substantial damage in Sunday night’s tornado.

The Red Cross said that it expected about 30 to 40 people on Monday night at the shelter at the First Baptist Church in Van. About 50 people stayed at the shelter on Sunday night, after the tornado hit the town.

Officials confirmed Constable Pat Jordan was involved in a crash and injured during the storm. According to KETK, Deputy Constable Bob Keltner says Jordan was hurt in a minor motor vehicle accident south of Van. Jordan was taken by ambulance to a Tyler hospital where he was treated and released. He is currently recovering at home.

Meals on Wheels Ministry announced today that its site in Van Texas was closed Monday due to damage inflicted on the area during Sunday night’s storms. The site, which is located in the Van Community Library, will reopen and delivery will resume as soon as conditions allow normal operations. Meals on Wheels will deliver replacement meals for those missed once the organization is able to resume service. Clients may call Meals on Wheels Ministry at 1-800-451-2912 with any questions and concerns.

The American Red Cross has suggested people use the Safe and Well website to connect with families. A shelter has been set up at the 1st United Methodist Church. The organization’s disaster relief team is handing out food and water to those in need.

The nearby city of Ben Wheeler was also slammed by the storms. A KETK reporter was able to capture some of the devastation at a local home.