TEMPLE, Texas — In the aftermath of a tornado, the Hilton Garden Inn off Scott Boulevard in Temple is among the hardest-hit areas, with its awning torn off and resting at a 45° angle on the ground.
The devastation extends along West Adams Avenue, where debris from metal sidings, chairs, roof, and awning tops is scattered throughout parking lots and blocks worth of powerlines have been ripped down.
Around 4:30 p.m., the National Weather Service confirmed an EF-2 tornado struck West Temple with nearly 120 mph winds.
Efforts to minimize traffic disruptions are underway as debris is cleared from the road between North Pea Ridge Road and Old Waco Road. However, the impact on traffic is shown, with backed-up roads and businesses struggling to cope with the cluttered properties.
Cleanup crews, tow trucks, and other city services are on-site, along with good Samaritans offering assistance.
Telephone lines are knocked down, contributing to slowed traffic on East and West Adams Ave. Some businesses are forced to shut down temporarily, while city workers address roof tiles blown off by the storm.
As the community begins its road to recovery, drivers are asked to stay at home and only drive if necessary.
Despite the challenges, there are currently no road closures, with crews diligently working to restore the area.