React from residents after deadly tornado rips through Polk County (KPRC 2)
ONALASKA, Texas – Residents were fearful and in shock after a tornado ripped through multiple neighborhoods in Onalaska in Polk County Wednesday evening.
According to the Polk County Office of Emergency Management, at least 20 people were injured and three people were killed in the storm.
Residents captured pictures and videos of the aftermath, revealing the damage the twister left behind. Here is what some of them had to say.
Y'all please keep Onalaska Texas in your prayers. Never thought this would happen here. Been living here for my whole life, and nothing has happened like this. So heartbroken 💔😢 Big thanks to the people that will be up all night and day helping get all this cleaned up. #Texaspic.twitter.com/4yyRodqpdZ
My House in the Onalaska tx tornado we where all huddled in the back of the house in the hallway house is in 2 parts roof gone kids room is gone trying to get back in to get our stuff rented a storage. this is yaupon cove drive pic.twitter.com/18QusOTPV7
“We are fine. Fortunately for us, we live closer to Livingston. It barely rained where we live. We are safe and well," Lindsey Rowe Jones said. "We’re just devastated for those who don’t even have a place to stay, clothes to wear, or food to eat tonight. Lots of planning going on to begin helping those in need tomorrow.
A command post was set up at the Onalaska Fire and Rescue as first responders worked to rescue trapped residents and assess the damage.
Onalaska police said four subdivisions in the town were badly affected by the tornado, including Canyon Park and Yaupon Cove, where multiple people had to be rescued Wednesday night. At least five people were rescued in Canyon Park and officials said at least two of the people were in critical condition.
Prairie View A&M University graduate with a master’s degree in Digital Media Studies from Sam Houston State. Delta woman. Proud aunt. Lover of the color purple. 💜