Series of Devastating Storms Leave Five Dead and Widespread Destruction at Oklahoma and Great Plains States. Authorities and local media report an unprecedented onslaught of tornadoes wreaking havoc across parts of Oklahoma and neighboring Great Plains states, resulting in at least five fatalities. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirms a staggering number of tornadoes, with separate weather systems unleashing destructive forces over consecutive days.
On Friday, a staggering 78 tornadoes tore through primarily Nebraska and Iowa. Following closely, another weather system on Saturday spawned 35 tornado reports stretching from northern Texas and Oklahoma to Missouri, according to the NWS.
These storms unleashed torrential rain, with some areas experiencing up to seven inches (18 centimeters) within hours.
Meteorologists caution of ongoing severe weather threats on Sunday, including flash flooding, hail, and the potential for more tornadoes. Sulphur, situated in south-central Oklahoma, bore the brunt of Saturday’s onslaught, witnessing widespread devastation as scores of buildings were torn apart, as captured in social media videos and images.
Governor Kevin Stitt, addressing the media from the heavily impacted Sulphur, confirms four fatalities statewide, describing the damage as the worst seen during his tenure. Rescue operations intensify as emergency crews scour affected areas for victims and survivors amidst the wreckage.
Tragedy strikes Holdenville, Oklahoma, where at least two individuals, including a four-month-old baby, lose their lives, according to state officials and local media reports. Additionally, a fourth fatality is reported on a highway in Marietta, where tornadoes of at least EF-3 intensity wreak havoc, inflicting widespread damage.
Stitt declares a 30-day state of emergency to facilitate aid to the hardest-hit counties, while seeking federal assistance. Meanwhile, the toll of the storms extends beyond Oklahoma, as a man injured in a tornado in Iowa succumbs to his injuries in hospital.
As the affected region grapples with the aftermath, power outages affect over 25,000 homes in Texas and more than 19,000 in Oklahoma, according to poweroutage.us. Meteorologists emphasize the rarity of separate major outbreaks occurring in successive days, underscoring the exceptional nature of the recent events in the tornado-prone region.
