The 1953 Lake View Tornado

Remembering One of San Angelo’s Deadliest Storms

On May 11, 1953, a powerful tornado tore through the Lake View area of San Angelo, leaving behind devastation that would forever be remembered in local history.

The tornado carved a destructive path stretching nearly 20 miles, moving from northwest San Angelo eastward past Armstrong Street. In its wake, the storm left 13 people dead, injured 159 others, and heavily damaged homes, schools, and businesses throughout the community.

Among the hardest-hit locations was Lake View High School, which sustained approximately $250,000 in damages.

For many longtime residents, the Lake View tornado remains one of the most tragic weather events the community has ever faced.

The Lake View water tower featured on “Restoring Ewe” remembers the tornado and the lasting impact it had on the San Angelo community. Surrounding the tower are artistic representations inspired by the tornado itself, helping symbolize both the destruction caused by the storm and the resilience shown by the Lake View community in its aftermath.

“Restoring Ewe” was painted by local San Angelo artist Ashley Perales, owner of Pop of Color, whose artwork helped transform these historical moments into a visual tribute to resilience and recovery throughout the Concho Valley.

Historical Sources & Further Reading

• https://www.conchovalleyhomepage.com/gallery/the-1953-lake-view-tornados-aftermath/
• https://www.facebook.com/NWSSanAngelo/posts/on-this-day-67-years-ago-in-1953-a-deadly-tornado-struck-san-angelo-this-violent/3115007911895395/
• https://www.gosanangelo.com/story/news/local/2018/05/11/lake-view-ravaged-tornado-65-years-ago-today/603066002/