Heavy Rain & Lightning Leave Motorists Stranded & Homes Without Power

SAN ANGELO – A line of strong thunderstorms turned severe over San Angelo Friday night flooding streets, knocking out electricity to thousands and sending first responders to dozens of water rescue calls as residents scrambled to get to shelter. 

Storms developed over Mertzon, Tankersley, Twin Buttes, and Water Valley during the evening hours before strengthening and exceeding severe levels as they quickly moved across San Angelo between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.

AEP Texas reported around 5,000 customers without power for a few hours as multiple lightning strikes  hit power transformers and poles across the city.  There were reports of power lines down across streets as well has high winds from the storms downed tree limbs and lines.  Most homes had power restored by 2 a.m. after the storms passed through. 

San Angelo Police communications indicate officers and fighters responded to dozens of water rescue calls as vehicles were left stranded in low lying areas and low water crossings.  Officers rescued individuals from vehicles at the intersection of Lindenwood and Sul Ross, Forest Park and Howard, S. Jackson St. by Angelo State University, along FM-2288, College Hills intersections along the Red Arroyo, and many other low lying locations.  

No serious injuries were reported.  Officials are assessing the damage to property Saturday.  

The National Weather Service office at Mathis Field recorded .53 inches of rain between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. as the fast moving storms blew through the city.  Hundreds of lightning strikes were also reported.  

There is no more rain in the forecast.  Saturday's afternoon high will reach 100 degrees and temps will climb higher each day.  Expect excessive heat warnings by mid week.