Strong Storms Pummel Central U.S.

DALLAS (AP) — Homeowners and utility crews cleaned up Friday after thunderstorms with winds of up to 70 mph tore through North Texas, leaving widespread damage. More severe weather was expected Friday through the central U.S., including strong winds and large hail.

By Friday morning, about 200 homes remained without power in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, according to Oncor — down from a reported 34,000 Thursday.

The storms toppled trees, tore holes in roofs and peeled away the front a church. Earlier in the day, five teens were rescued from a rapidly filling creek in southern Dallas. Police said they were lucky to make it out OK.

In western Arkansas, more than a half-foot of rain fell in a 24-hour period, sending creeks and streams overflowing. Several people were rescued from high waters.

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