Thunderstorm Wind in Reeves County, Texas

A thunderstorm developed over eastern Culberson County and moved east northeast into northern Reeves County. This storm strengthened as it moved into Reeves County and produced significant damage to the Highway 285 RV Park about 15 miles southeast of Orla. It was determined by a National Weather Service survey team that damage to the RV park was the result of rear-flank downdraft winds which was a straight-line wind event. The survey team estimated the wind speeds to be 100-130 miles per hour based on damage to the RV park. This was based on damage to trailers, outbuildings, vehicles, and other structures. It was determined that the swath of damaging winds was around 300 yards wide and 0.75 miles in length. There was one major injury related to this event. The cost of damage is a very rough estimate.

An upper level low over southern California moved east and developed into an upper trough over Arizona and New Mexico. An upper level jet stream moved over West Texas and produced more lift in the atmosphere. A cold front moved south into the area and stalled near the Pecos River. There was moderate instability and high moisture and wind shear across the area. These conditions resulted in thunderstorms that produced tornadoes and wind damage near the Pecos River.