F2 Tornado — Johnson, Texas

2006-12-29 · near Rio Vista, Johnson, Texas

Event narrative

The National Weather Service in Fort Worth conducted a damage survey and found that the tornado which originated in Hill County continued on its destructive northeast path into Johnson County. Damage to sheds and vegetation was noted along County Roads 1205 and 1204. The most significant damage to structures was found near FM 916, CR 1202, and CR 1205, northeast to near Highway 171. Several structures were unroofed while others suffered partial roof loss. Major damage to trees was also noted here. Damage to homes and trees continued along the track near CR 421, CR 423, and CR 415 just north of Highway 4. The tornado then crossed FM 2415. The last observed damage was along the south shore of Lake Alvarado. County officials reported that twenty-two residences were destroyed, twenty were heavily damaged, and twenty more had minor damages. Ten people were taken to local hospitals. Most were for minor injuries, but two suffered more serious injuries and were released from the hospital the next day. The Governor designated Johnson County a disaster area.

Wider weather episode

A rare winter tornado outbreak occurred on December 29 over portions of North Texas, spawning almost two dozen tornadoes. Very high shear and low instability created an environment favorable for tornadoes. A strong surface low pressure system and warm front located in southern North Texas increased the probablitity for low-level rotation. In addition to tornadoes, severe reports of large hail and flash flooding were widespread.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (32.1758, -97.3160)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 7136. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.