Holdenville, Oklahoma – At least four people lost their lives in a devastating tornado outbreak that swept through southern Oklahoma. The severe weather also caused widespread damage to homes and businesses in several states, including Texas, Kansas, and southern Wisconsin. News of the tragic events prompted the declaration of a state of emergency in 12 counties in Oklahoma.
Emergency management officials confirmed two fatalities in Holdenville, one of whom was an infant, while another death was reported in Marietta where a hospital also suffered damage. The fourth victim was found in Sulphur, a heavily impacted town where numerous homes and businesses were left in ruins. Search and rescue teams have been tirelessly working in the area, with Governor Kevin Stitt expressing shock at the extent of the destruction.
In addition to Oklahoma, residents in other states were grappling with the aftermath of the severe storms. A tornado tore through suburban Omaha, Nebraska, demolishing homes and businesses as it traversed farmland and neighborhoods before hitting an Iowa town. Power outages affected more than 20,000 homes and businesses in Oklahoma, leaving many without electricity.
Throughout the night, multiple tornadoes touched down across central Oklahoma, particularly near Ardmore, Norman, Sulfur, and Spaulding. The storm system brought with it flash flooding, high winds, and a heightened risk of tornadoes across the Plains and Midwest. As the storms continued moving eastward, areas in the Missouri Valley and Arklatex were expected to be impacted.
The National Weather Service issued alerts for severe weather, including particularly dangerous situations in parts of the Plains. Large hail and strong tornadoes posed significant threats to life and property, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The ongoing storms also raised concerns about high-end flooding, with experts cautioning that the region could experience rainfall-related fatalities and substantial flood damage. The repeated bout of severe weather on waterlogged ground heightened the risk of life-threatening flash floods.
As the impacted communities began cleanup and recovery efforts, officials stressed the importance of vigilance in heeding weather alerts and warnings. The devastating tornado outbreak served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and destructive nature of severe weather events, urging residents to prioritize safety measures and emergency preparedness in the face of future threats.