Strong winds rip roof, hangar door & billboard in Abilene

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Strong winds swept through Abilene Sunday morning, causing damage across north Abilene, from ripping off a hangar door at the airport to wrapping a billboard around a pole.

The National Weather Service in San Angelo reported a peak wind speed of 62 mph just after 11:00 a.m. at Abilene Regional Airport. One of the airport’s hangar doors was blown off its tracks in the gusty conditions.

Over on the 3100 block of North Judge Ely, high winds tore off part of a building’s roof, resulting in major water damage to the Carson Cattle Company. Owner Randy Carson said he first heard the news from a neighboring business.

“He just called and said, ‘I think your roof just flew off. And by the way, happy Father’s Day,'” Carson shared.

Taylor Electric has advised Carson to avoid touching any downed power lines in the area. Once it’s safe, he plans to work with a contractor to cover the damaged roof.

At the intersection of East Overland Trail and Elmdale Road, a billboard was completely destroyed and twisted around a utility pole. Despite the dramatic scene, Abilene police confirmed the road remains open and the structure is not currently a hazard.

At this time, it’s unclear whether the damage was caused by straight-line winds or a microburst.

If you experienced storm damage, you’re encouraged to report it to the National Weather Service.