Lindale, Texas – A fast-moving tornado carved a 2.6-mile path through parts of Smith County within minutes Saturday morning, leaving behind EF-1 damage east of Lindale.
According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, the tornado touched down at 10:20 a.m. and lifted by 10:28 a.m., packing estimated peak winds of 97 mph. Survey teams confirmed the tornado reached a maximum width of 32 yards as it tracked through rural areas just outside Lindale.
The storm caused damage along a narrow corridor, with impacts concentrated east of U.S. Highway 69 and near local county roads. Despite the ուժ of the winds, no injuries or fatalities were reported, a result officials credit to the brief duration and relatively limited path.
Emergency crews and local officials continue to assess minor structural damage and debris scattered across the area. Residents are urged to remain cautious when cleaning up, watching for downed power lines or unstable structures.
This tornado adds to a stretch of active spring weather across East Texas, where rapid storm development can lead to brief but intense impacts. More updates could follow if additional survey data refines the storm’s path or intensity.
