Strong storm leaves behind damage, power outages in Selma

Roof blown off of gymnasium at Selma University — Photo from City of Selma

It was a stormy weekend for some folks in our area, including those in and around Selma.

Selma Mayor James Perkins, Jr., Dallas County Emergency Management Agency Director Toya Stiles and other city and county leaders held a news conference today to outline the damage.

Here are the key points of their report:

The gymnasium roof at Selma University blew off, and there was also damage to windows and doors. At least 13 students had to be put up at hotels because power was out.

Damage has been reported at 10 homes and at a building on Water Avenue.

The good news is no one was hurt or killed.

12,000 homes had been without power at the peak, though that number has gone down.

The Dallas County EMA says the damage was from straight line winds and not a tornado.

If you have debris, take it to the curb, because crews will not go onto private property. But don’t put it in the road.

Don’t touch powerlines, because even if they look dead, they may again carry electricity as power is restored.

Mayor Perkins says at this point, it doesn’t appear that the damage is extensive enough to request state or federal aid.

If you need help or have questions, call the Dallas County EMA at (334) 874-2515.