Temple issues disaster declaration after possible tornado touches down in city

TEMPLE, Texas — The City of Temple issued a disaster declaration due to the widespread damage caused by storms on Wednesday, May 22. The city plans to hold a news conference at 10 a.m. Thursday to provide an update on the damage and their planned response.

In the disaster declaration message, the city said first responders were receiving a high volume of calls and are prioritizing ones that are life-saving. Some roads are closed and others are dangerous or impassible so they also encouraged people to stay home.

More severe weather is possible on Thursday.

A video on X, formerly known as Twitter, purports to show a tornado rapidly moving through the city of Temple, sending debris flying into the air.

Report downed power lines to 888-313-4747 or Oncor.com/Outages. Report down trees to 254-298-5682.

For gas emergencies and leaks, call 911. Then, call Atmos Gas’ emergency line at 866-322-8667.

Starting Wednesday at 9 p.m., Wilson Recreation Center at 2205 Curtis B Elliot Dr., will operate as a shelter. Anyone who needs the shelter can arrive on their own. However, if they need transportation, they city provided this number: 254-298-5682.

Due to the storms, the following will be closed on Thursday, May 23.

• Temple Public Library  
• Temple ISD
• Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center 
• Railroad & Heritage Museum 
• Sammons Community Center 
• Sammons Golf Course 
• Sammons Indoor Pool 
• Summit Recreation Center 
• Wilson Recreation Center 
• Heart to Home Animal Adoption Center

Bell County also said it would close its offices on Thursday due to power outages.