San Antonio Tornado Damages Apartments, Shops on Northwest Side July 15

A tornado touched down on San Antonio’s northwest side Wednesday morning, July 15, leaving significant damage across apartment complexes and commercial properties near The Rim. The National Weather Service confirmed the tornado crossed Interstate 10 between The Dominion and Shavano Park around 8 a.m. Between 50 and 60 units at the Oasis San Antonio apartments were damaged, with three units on the fourth floor losing their roof entirely. No injuries were reported, but thousands lost power as heavy rain and flooding continued across South Texas.

Tornado path and damage to apartments

The tornado first touched down near Hausman Road near UT San Antonio before 8 a.m. and moved northeast toward The Rim shopping centers, crossing the I-10 and 1604 interchange. At the Oasis San Antonio apartments on UTSA Boulevard, a large portion of the roof was torn off the building. Residents heard a loud howl as winds intensified and debris spun around the complex. A pool gazebo was blown away and insulation scattered across the property.

Commercial damage and power outages

The Palladium IMAX theater and multiple storefronts at The Rim and Shops at La Cantera sustained damage. Scaffolding was damaged and structural concerns emerged at several buildings. Power flashes could be seen as the tornado tore through power lines, leaving thousands without electricity. CPS Energy President and CEO Rudy Garza said widespread flooding made it difficult for crews to safely reach damaged equipment for repairs.

Emergency response and ongoing weather threats

San Antonio Fire Department responded to calls just before 8 a.m. and found extensive damage at multiple locations. Firefighters checked reports of a possible person trapped at another apartment complex but confirmed no one was injured. The National Weather Service is conducting a survey to determine the tornado’s full path and strength. Flooding remains the primary concern through Thursday evening, with 10 to 20 inches of rain possible in some areas as slow-moving storms continue across South Texas.

Tropical weather pattern fueling the storms

The severe weather is part of a typical mid-summer tropical pattern that occurs in Texas about once every five years, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Monte Oaks. Tropical moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and Pacific Ocean is fueling the heavy rain. Uvalde County has already recorded up to 16 inches of rain, and flash flood warnings extend to several counties near the Mexico border, including parts of Kerr County where catastrophic flooding killed more than 100 people last year.

Final Thoughts

The San Antonio tornado caused significant property damage but no injuries. Residents should stay away from damaged buildings and downed power lines while crews complete cleanup and damage assessments. Flooding poses the greater threat through Thursday as tropical storms continue across South Texas.

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