Tornado Outbreak in Oklahoma Prompts Calls to Take Cover
A deadly tornado outbreak in Oklahoma has caused significant damage and prompted urgent calls for residents to take cover. The threat of severe storms continues from Missouri to Texas, with multiple large and extremely dangerous tornadoes reported on the ground simultaneously overnight across parts of Oklahoma, according to the National Weather Service.
Impact and Response
Tragically, one storm-related death has been reported in Hughes County, Oklahoma. Reports of injuries, property damage, flooding, and downed power lines and trees have also emerged across several counties. The extent of the damage is still unclear, but cities such as Sulphur, located about 80 miles south of Oklahoma City, have already experienced injuries and impacts from at least two large tornadoes.
Continued Threat and Precautions
The threat of severe weather continues as nearly 47 million people are at risk from east Texas to the upper Mississippi River Valley. Cities including Dallas, Austin, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Wichita, Topeka, and the Kansas City metropolitan area could all see strong tornadoes as storms push eastward across the southern plains. More than 7 million people are currently under tornado watches, stretching from Texas to southern Wisconsin.
Oklahoma’s Emergency Operations Center has been activated, and residents have been urged to stay weather aware and know where to take shelter if a severe storm threatens their area. In addition to tornadoes, heavy rainfall is expected, which could worsen the already life-threatening situation. Flash flood warnings are in effect in several Texas counties, and unsettled weather is expected to continue across the midsection of the country into Monday.
Communities in Nebraska and Iowa are also dealing with the aftermath of tornadoes that hit on Friday and Saturday, causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure. While there were no reported deaths in Nebraska, many residents are now faced with the daunting task of rebuilding their homes.
As the severe weather threat persists, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed, heed warnings, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
