Weather Hazard
Wichita County Has a Serious Tornado History
More than 60 tornadoes have been recorded in Wichita County since 1900, including a catastrophic 1979 storm that killed 42 people.
On April 10, 1979, a violent tornado up to 1.5 miles wide tore through Wichita Falls, killing 42 people, injuring over 1,700, and causing roughly $400 million in damage. The National Weather Service calls it the deadliest event in the county's recorded tornado history.
The county has had at least 64 documented tornadoes from 1900 through 2024. Most are weaker events, but the region sits in an active part of Tornado Alley. If you are buying or renting here, check what shelter options exist at the property. Homeowners should review their insurance coverage for wind and tornado damage. The NWS office in Norman, Oklahoma covers this area.
Source to confirm: NWS – Wichita County Tornado Data (1900–Present)