Oklahoma Storms Injure 11, Leave Thousands Without Power

Severe overnight storms and several tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma early Sunday, injuring at least 11 people, toppling vehicles, tearing roofs off buildings, and leaving tens of thousands without power. Major damage affected the Oklahoma City area, while tornado warnings extended into parts of central and southeastern Oklahoma, continuing to Arkansas. Flash floods, lightning fires, and strong winds exacerbated the situation, with reports of structural destruction and numerous power outages affecting over 99,000 customers during the peak of the storm.

Widespread Damage Across Communities

Choctaw, a town just east of Oklahoma City, reported significant destruction, with entire neighborhoods leveled by the storm. Mayor Chad Allcox noted that power lines and large trees blocked many roadways, slowing emergency responses. Firefighters and police conducted door-to-door welfare checks Sunday morning, prioritizing residents in the hardest-hit neighborhoods. In Oklahoma City, crews worked through the night under torrential rain to conduct initial searches and rescue operations, which were complicated by ongoing weather threats and flood risks.

Scott Douglas, spokesperson for the Oklahoma City Fire Department, described the scene as challenging, with heavy rains and lightning hampering first responders’ efforts. Rescuers freed two individuals trapped inside an overturned mobile home, including a woman injured by an air conditioning unit that fell on her leg. Emergency officials have reported that 11 people were transported to local hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries, while others with minor injuries sought medical help independently.

Impact on Facilities and Infrastructure

The Oklahoma Heart Hospital South sustained some structural damage, and authorities urged residents to use the available shelters opened by the American Red Cross and other relief organizations, including a shelter set up at a nearby casino. The University of Oklahoma issued an emergency alert for students and staff to seek shelter on lower floors as storms approached their campus overnight, while the National Weather Service office in Norman, Oklahoma, issued urgent warnings for residents to take cover.

Further Weather Risks and Ongoing Emergency Response

Meteorologists and officials continue to monitor the potential for additional heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and flash flooding into Monday, with central and southeastern parts of the state remaining under tornado and storm watches. According to Richard Thompson of the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, it is believed that six or more tornadoes touched down, adding to the extensive damage across the region.

Shelters are operating to provide relief for residents impacted by the power outages and damage. The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management has also deployed resources to assist local response teams and repair crews working to restore power and clear debris.