KPRC 2′s reporting, imagery helped NWS determine EF-1 tornado hit Bridgeland area of Cypress during derecho in May

CYPRESS – The National Weather Service has determined that an EF-1 tornado was the cause that damaged several homes in a Cypress area neighborhood in May.

The tornado was developed during a derecho that impacted the Houston area on May 16, 2024.

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With the help of KPRC 2′s reporting, the NWS confirmed the tornado touched down in Bridgeland after going back through our photos and videos from the scene.

The tornado cut a path from north-northwest winds to south-southeast across the residential area. The winds from the tornado, which peaked at 110 miles per hour, were strong enough to pick apart houses, throw wooded planks like projectiles, and pierce whatever was in their path. With the help of KPRC, the tornado was determined to be on the ground a half mile and with 75 yards wide. Here is the updated storm report.

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Officials said four homes were severely damaged and numerous other homes had suffered roof damage, broken windows and more.

After the winds calmed, families walked outside to find their homes were destroyed and their roofs missing.

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“We were all in here,” said David White, when he showed KPRC 2′s Gage Goulding where he waited out the storm. “Four dogs. Me, my wife and my 16-year-old. We’re sitting on cushions and blankets in here, and it was vibrating, and I was holding on to them. And I was thinking, ‘If this is it, at least we’re going together.’ It was very scary.”

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• SEE the photos from KPRC 2 that helped with the NWS’ determination: