Severe Storms and Tornadoes Strike Oklahoma, Leaving Injuries and Power Outages in Their Wake

Severe storms and reported tornadoes swept through Oklahoma early Sunday, resulting in at least six injuries and widespread power outages across the region. The Oklahoma City Police Department reported that the injured individuals were transported to hospitals with non-life-threatening conditions.

The storms caused significant damage, with downed power and gas lines, toppled trees, and damaged traffic signals and signs reported throughout the Oklahoma City area. Local news footage showed overturned vehicles, fallen trees, and destruction to homes.

According to PowerOutage.us, more than 80,000 customers were without electricity as of Sunday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a tornado watch for parts of eastern Oklahoma City, extending to Midwest City and Tinker Air Force Base, with a tornado warning affecting over 300,000 residents in Moore, Midwest City, and Del City. The warning urged those in the storm's path to seek immediate shelter.

Later in the morning, the NWS cautioned residents not to let their guard down, noting that atmospheric conditions were beginning to recover, potentially leading to more severe weather, including thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flooding throughout the day. The agency indicated that multiple rounds of severe storms could continue into early next week, with the risk of damaging winds, large hail, and additional tornadoes.

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management is closely monitoring the evolving weather situation.

In Choctaw, police reported “significant damage to homes” and provided information about a shelter at Choctaw Elementary School for those in need. They advised residents to exercise caution while navigating the area due to downed power lines and to heed instructions from emergency personnel regarding road closures for safety.

As of October 28, 2024, the United States has recorded 1,515 confirmed tornadoes this year, trailing only the 2,156 confirmed in 2011, highlighting the severity and frequency of extreme weather events in recent times.