KIRBY, TEXAS — Severe thunderstorms with estimated wind speeds of 75 miles per hour damaged at least 64 residential properties in Kirby, Texas, between 9:55 p.m. and 9:59 p.m. on Tuesday. The National Weather Service attributed the damage to severe downdraft winds from a supercell thunderstorm.
No injuries, deaths, or displacements were reported as a result of the storm, according to City of Kirby officials. Most of the damage occurred south of Binz-Engleman Road, particularly in neighborhoods near Gordon Cooper Drive and Crest Lane, with the highest concentration on James Webb Drive, where a carport roof was displaced.
Kirby Police Chief Roxanne Cardona said the city received a tornado warning around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday. “We received our first phone call from a resident very upset saying that a tornado had touched down.” She added that early reports included damage to homes, fences, vehicles, carports, and trees.
“They had three vehicles inside of their carport when the carport itself lifted up and dispersed all around the cul-de-sac and also three blocks down.” She noted that first responders went door to door after the storm to check on residents, emphasizing that the community includes many disabled and elderly individuals. Kirby resident Roy Romero described the moment the storm hit: “All of a sudden it sounds like our roof is literally peeling off the house.” Romero said his patio awning was blown off and landed intact in his neighbor’s front yard, and added, “My RV could have been peeled open like a can opener.”
City officials reminded residents that cleanup services are free and conducted by volunteers, and that anyone charging for cleanup is not affiliated with the city. The Volunteer Reception Center is located at Tru Vision Church’s parking lot at 2826 Ackerman Road. Bexar County Emergency Management is assisting city crews with damage assessments and debris removal.
Residents are encouraged to document damage with photos and submit them through the state’s iSTAT assessment tool. Mayor Janeshia Grider said, “Enough reports must be submitted for the state to potentially recognize the event for disaster assistance eligibility.” The National Weather Service investigation into the storm damage remains ongoing.