WATCH: Confirmed tornado spotted near MAF

Lina PortmanMay 31, 2024

3 1 minute read

<br />

MIDLAND/ODESSA (KMID/KPEJ)- The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for east-central Ector County and western Midland County; the warning will remain in effect until at least 6:00 p.m.

Here is an overview of this weather advisory:

ALERT: As of 5:05 p.m. CDT, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near the Midland International Air and Space Port, or near Odessa, moving southeast at 25 mph. DANGER… Tornado and hail up to three inches in diameter. SOURCE…The radar indicated a rotation. IMPACT… Flying debris will be dangerous for those caught homeless. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows and vehicles will be caused. Tree damage is likely. *This dangerous storm will be near…Midland, Odessa, and the Midland International Air and Space Port around 5:10 p.m. CDT. Other locations affected by this tornadic storm include Odessa Schlemeyer Field, Warfield, Cotton Flat and Skywest Airport. This includes Interstate 20 between mileposts 121 and 135.

INSTRUCTIONS: COVER YOURSELF NOW! Move to a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home or in a vehicle, move to the nearest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Torrential rain is occurring with this storm and may lead to flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle on flooded roads.

Witnesses near Midland Air Harbor reported that a tornado was spotted in the area, along with a significant amount of large hail. The image above was taken on Highway 191 near the Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center.

The video above was taken by Béthanie Beltran and shows a tornado as it passes through Midland County.

This video was captured by Austin McClure:

Here is a view from the MAF tarmac, taken by an American Red Cross volunteer:

And another image sent to us by Kate Salinas, seen from south of I-20 near FM 1788.

Above are hail photos submitted by Gardendale viewer Dave Weatherford. And an even bigger hail from a Midland viewer.