It's going to be a scorcher of a weekend in Matador, the west Texas town slammed by a deadly tornado Wednesday evening leaving thousands without electricity - and meaning no air conditioning as the town struggles to recover.
Today's high in Matador is due to be in the mid-90s. But Saturday, it could be 105. And by next Tuesday maybe 106 or better.
When the tornado hit Matador, it also ripped through the main electric substation, causing power outages from Matador to Abilene, 150 miles away.
American Electric Power Texas trucks were seen working around Matador Thursday. But until the power is restored, volunteers are focusing on providing either cool air or cool drinks to the town of just 600 people, the county seat of Motley county.
The local nursing home has opened its doors not only to its residents but to others as a cooling center.
Residents whose homes were destroyed might have hoped to find shelter at Billy Dean's Motel and Cafe. But Billy Dean's is on the far west side of town which was the first part of the small town the tornado hammered. And the roof to Billy Dean's was literally gone with the wind.
Another eatery, Pat Smith's Matador Diner might have been a source for nourishment and solace but it too was destroyed. Smith was in his cafe at the time. He says it "felt like forever -- but it lasted only 20 seconds."
Pat Smith looks through his restaurant, Matador Diner, after a tornado,© Lubbock Avalanche-Journal-USA TO
First responders from around Texas have made the trip to help. The McLennan County city of Hewitt Fire Department is one. They were already in the Panhandle helping the people of Perryton where a deadly tornado struck last week. Hewitt firefighters are now three hours to the south in Matador, helping there.
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