TYLER, Texas (KETK) – Severe weather hit the East Texas area on Thursday.

Strong lightning was seen near the Earl Campbell Parkway.

Heavy rain was reported in Tyler while Smith County was under a tornado warning, and the tornado sirens helped warn residents of the storms. Tornado warnings were issued in different East Texas counties.

At one point, more than 7,000 East Texans were also left without power due to the strong winds.