Denton residents demand tornado sirens for vulnerable neighborhoods and mobile home parks

During a recent Denton City Council meeting, residents voiced urgent concerns regarding the lack of tornado warning systems in a specific area of the city. The discussion highlighted a wedge-shaped region bordered by Fort Worth Drive, Country Club, and Brush Creek Road, which includes several neighborhoods such as Central Village Estates, Bent Creek Estates, and Ryan Meadows, as well as two schools.

A resident, who lives in the affected area, reported that approximately 1,850 homes are situated in what he termed a "dead zone" for tornado alerts. This area, which is experiencing ongoing residential development, is home to an estimated 4,600 people who currently lack access to outdoor tornado sirens. The resident emphasized the vulnerability of three large mobile home parks within this zone, where management has no established protocols for alerting or protecting residents during severe weather events.

The resident recounted a past incident involving an F2 tornado in 2011 that caused significant damage in the neighborhood but fortunately resulted in no injuries. This history underscores the pressing need for a reliable warning system. While the city offers the Alert Denton service, the resident criticized its limitations, particularly its inability to provide alerts during nighttime hours.

The discussion at the meeting reflects a growing concern among Denton residents about public safety and the need for improved emergency preparedness in light of the area's increasing population and the inherent risks associated with severe weather. As the city continues to develop, addressing these safety gaps will be crucial for protecting its residents. The council's response to these concerns and potential next steps remain to be seen.