Fatalities and Power Outages in Multiple Counties

Recent severe weather in Oklahoma has resulted in two fatalities in Pryor, according to the Oklahoma Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The storm caused significant disruption, leaving approximately 8,400 power outages primarily affecting Rogers, Mayes, Delaware, McCurtain, and Choctaw counties.

Widespread Damage Across the State

The State Emergency Operations Center remains activated as assessments of the damage continue. Multiple counties have reported significant structural damage, power outages, and injuries.

Delaware County

Delaware County Emergency Management reported substantial damage to homes, trees, and power lines, reflecting the widespread impact of the storm on local infrastructure.

Garfield County

Residents in Garfield County experienced baseball-sized hail, which caused severe damage to several homes. Such large hailstones can cause significant property damage, shattering windows, and damaging roofs.

Mayes County

In Mayes County, numerous homes and structures were reported damaged. The extent of the damage underscores the storm’s intensity as it swept through the area.

Nowata County

Nowata County saw damage to trees and downed power poles, further complicating the restoration of services and posing additional hazards to residents.

Woods and Ringwood Counties

Wind damage was prevalent in Woods and Ringwood counties, with multiple injuries reported at an outdoor wedding in Woods. This highlights the storm’s dangerous and unexpected impact on public gatherings and events.

Woodward County

In Woodward County, trailers, barns, and a mobile home sustained damage, reflecting the storm’s ability to affect both residential and agricultural properties.

Owasso County

Owasso County reported downed utility poles, adding to the infrastructure challenges faced by emergency management teams working to restore power and ensure safety.

Ongoing Recovery Efforts

At the height of the severe weather, nearly 24,000 power outages were reported statewide. As of the latest update, about 14,300 outages remain, indicating ongoing efforts to restore power to affected areas.

Reporting Damages and Seeking Assistance

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management urges residents to report any storm-related damages to their property at damage.ok.gov. Accurate reporting helps local and state emergency managers coordinate more effective response efforts.

For non-emergency disaster assistance or health and human service information, residents can contact their local 2-1-1 service, which is available 24 hours a day. It is crucial to reserve 911 calls for emergencies only to ensure those in immediate need can access critical services promptly.

Ensuring Community Safety and Support

Severe weather events like this underscore the importance of preparedness and community support. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions and to have a plan in place for future emergencies. Download The Local News App to receive real-time updates and important information directly to your phone. Click download on the prompt to stay connected and safe.

By focusing on proactive measures and community resources, Oklahoma can better navigate and recover from severe weather impacts, ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.

Source