At a Glance
- WhiteSboro winter storm toppled multiple structures, including barns, arenas, and a warehouse.
- Seven horses were rescued from the wreckage with only minor scratches.
- Roads remain impassable, and schools may stay closed through the week.
- Why it matters: Residents face ongoing safety risks and disruptions as emergency services assess the damage.
WhiteSboro, Texas, endured a severe winter storm that led to the collapse of several metal buildings and a warehouse, according to local officials. The event caused significant damage to property, disrupted transportation, and prompted emergency responders to rescue animals and assess the broader impact on the community.
Storm Impact on Buildings
The force of the winter storm was on full display Tuesday in Whitesboro, where multiple buildings collapsed under the weight of lingering ice and snow. “We’ve had quite a few structure collapses. Most of them have been metal buildings, barns, arenas, we have a lot of horse country up here,” said Jeff Patterson, Grayson County’s director of public safety.
A warehouse at Texas Building Supply collapsed midmorning, and a manager for the company reported that one employee was inside the building but managed to escape just before the collapse. The manager said the inventory was damaged and believes the building is a total loss.
The collapsed warehouse was located next to a gas station and a Ford dealership, both of which also received emergency crews. No injuries were reported at any of the sites.
Animal Rescue Efforts
Patterson said fire crews rescued seven horses, all of which escaped with only minor scratches. The horses were rescued from a barn that had collapsed during the storm.
“We are investigating the cause,” said Patterson, emphasizing that the emergency response focused on both human and animal safety. The swift rescue operation highlighted the community’s preparedness for such incidents.
Business and Road Disruptions
Emergency crews also responded to a Ford dealership, a gas station, and several collapsed carports across Whitesboro. The storm’s impact on infrastructure has made many roads difficult to travel.
Below is a snapshot of current road conditions and ambulance transport times:
| Road Segment | Current Status | Ambulance Transport Time |
|---|---|---|
| Whitesboro Main | Impassable | Nearly doubled |
| East-West Highway | Blocked | Nearly doubled |
| County Road 12 | Partially open | Nearly doubled |
| County Road 5 | Open | Nearly doubled |
Patterson said ambulance transport times have nearly doubled because of road conditions.
School Closures and Public Safety
Whitesboro Independent School District has warned families that schools could remain closed through the end of the week. “More cold weather’s expected over the weekend, so we’re not done with it yet, unfortunately,” Patterson said.
The school district’s advisory emphasizes the need for parents to keep children indoors and stay updated on weather alerts. The potential for extended closures underscores the severity of the storm’s impact.
Emergency Management Response
Grayson County’s Office of Emergency Management is asking residents to report winter storm-related damage online to help officials assess the full extent of the impact.
The online portal allows citizens to upload photos and describe damage, which helps emergency planners allocate resources and prioritize repairs.
Doris Haynie, who lives next to the collapsed warehouse, described her experience: “I was thinking at first it was some of their trucks over there. It was a low roar, and it just kept going on and on, and I thought, oh, I bet they’re losing their building. And sure enough, I came out here, and that’s what was happening.”
Her testimony provides a firsthand account of the sudden structural failure and the community’s rapid response.
Community Preparedness
The storm’s aftermath has prompted a community-wide discussion on preparedness for severe winter weather. Local officials have urged residents to maintain emergency kits, keep heating systems functional, and stay informed through local news outlets.
The incident also highlights the importance of regular inspections for metal structures in cold climates. Grayson County officials plan to review building codes and safety standards in the coming months.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple metal structures collapsed due to the winter storm.
- Seven horses were rescued with minimal injuries.
- Road conditions have worsened, doubling ambulance transport times.
- Schools may stay closed through the week, and residents are urged to report damage online.
- Emergency services are actively assessing damage and coordinating with local businesses.
Residents are advised to monitor local updates, stay away from affected roads, and report any additional damage to the county’s emergency management office.
