North Texas tornadoes prompt agricultural state of emergency. What to know

Several counties in North Texas have been severely damaged by storms — some producing tornadoes — in the past few days, prompting Texas leaders to declare a state of emergency.

After tornadoes tore through Mineral Wells and other North Texas towns over the past few days, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller declared an agricultural emergency for several counties due to damage farmers and ranchers are facing.

“Folks in North Texas woke up to shredded crops, damaged fences, flooded pastures, and serious losses that threaten their livelihoods," Miller said in a statement. "We have faced challenges before, droughts, freezes, fires, and now these storms, and every time, Texas agriculture has come back stronger. Texans are going to take care of our own.”

Miller's April 29 declaration follows Texas Gov. Greg Abbott'sMonday, April 27 disaster declaration for the North Texas region and directs state resources to help local communities respond to the weather.

Here's what you need to know about Miller's agricultural emergency declaration and the latest information on the storms.

What counties in North Texas are impacted by the disaster declaration?

Abbott's declaration included Lamar, Parker and Wise counties in North Texas.

Miller's also included Palo Pinto County.

What resources are available to farmers, ranchers during the emergency?

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has activated the State of Texas Agricultural Relief Fund (STAR Fund) and other TDA disaster resources to provide disaster relief to affected agricultural producers.

According to TDA, the STAR Fund is a privately funded relief fund for farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses to rebuild after disasters. To submit an application or donate to the fund, visit texasagriculture.gov/Home/Production-Agriculture/Disaster-Assistance/STAR-Fund

Other key resources include:

• Hay and Feed Hotline: A free service connecting hay donors and buyers in emergencies. Call (877) 429-1998 to give or get help.
• AgriStress Helpline: A 24/7 mental health support tailored for rural Texans. Call 833-897-2474.

How do I report storm damage to the state?

Texans can report storm damage using the iSTAT damage survey at damage.tdem.texas.gov. 

According to the Texas Department of Emergency Management, submitting a damage report helps state and local officials assess the full scope of the disaster and determine what additional resources may be needed for affected communities.

The information provided is crucial in identifying whether the state meets federal requirements for various forms of disaster assistance.

North Texas weather today

According to the National Weather Service in Fort Worth/Dallas, showers and occasional storms will mainly affect Central Texas and the western portions of North Texas on Thursday, April 30.

The severe weather threat is low, but a few stronger storms could produce small hail, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rain.

Current Texas watches and warnings

Central Texas weather radar

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Mateo Rosiles is the Texas Connect reporter for USA TODAY and its regional papers in Texas. Got a news tip for him? Email him: [email protected].