Severe Texas Storms Knock Out Power, Close Polling Places During Elections

Wind gusts of up to 80 mph, destructive hail, and rain knocked out power for more than 600,000 utility customers.

Damage at a truck stop the morning after a tornado rolled through in Valley View, Texas, on May 26, 2024. Julio Cortez/AP Photo

DALLAS—A round of severe storms pummeled Texas early Tuesday, leaving more than 600,000 utility customers without power and forcing more than 100 polling places to close as voters head to the polls to decide several key runoff elections.

“Due to ongoing severe weather, many of our Vote Centers are experiencing power outages. We encourage voters to use our Vote Center Finder ... to find their nearest open location. Your safety is our priority, so please travel safely. #DallasCountyVotes,” wrote Dallas County Elections on social media Tuesday morning shortly after the polls opened at 7 a.m.