In the wake of severe weather and a tornado hitting Barnsdall, Oklahoma, authorities provide updates on damages, rescue efforts, and community support.

Situation Update by Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (ODEM)

At 1 a.m., the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (ODEM) released a situation update detailing the extent of the damage:

• Tornado Damage in Barnsdall: The Osage County Emergency Management reported tornado damage in the Barnsdall area.
• Homes Damaged: Oklahoma Highway Patrol reported 30 to 40 homes damaged in Barnsdall, along with a natural gas leak.
• Nursing Home Evacuation: A nursing home was damaged, prompting the evacuation of patients. Fortunately, no injuries requiring hospital care were reported.
• Coordination of Evacuation: The Regional Medical Response System coordinated the evacuation efforts and provided medical assistance.
• Road Closures and Gas Leak: Several roads were closed due to debris, and a natural gas leak was reported in Barnsdall.
• American Red Cross Shelter: An American Red Cross shelter was opened at the Osage County Fairgrounds in Pawhuska.

Updates from Osage County Sheriff Eddie Virden

Sheriff Eddie Virden provided additional updates:

• Fatality Reported: Sadly, one fatality was reported on the outskirts of town, not at the nursing home.
• Shelter Locations: Virden announced the opening of a shelter at the Women’s Building at the Fairgrounds in Pawhuska.

On-ground Reports from Osage County Sheriff’s Office

The Osage County Sheriff’s Office reported on the ground situation in Barnsdall:

• Casualty Confirmed: At least one person was confirmed dead following the tornado and severe weather.
• Search and Rescue Operations: The Oklahoma Highway Patrol conducted extensive search and rescue operations.
• Road Safety Concerns: Downed power lines, gas leaks, and debris rendered roadways dangerous, leading to blockages on Highway 11 and Highway 123.
• Restricted Access: Only emergency and first responders were permitted access to the affected areas.
• Community Support: Volunteers distributed water and coffee to individuals stranded on the side of the road, awaiting assistance.

Community Response and Assistance

• Neighborhood Search: A school bus was deployed to search for individuals in neighborhoods severely affected by the tornado.

Reporting Damages and Seeking Assistance

Residents impacted by the storms were urged to report property damages to the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management at damage.ok.gov. For non-emergency assistance, residents were advised to contact local 211 services available 24/7.

In times of crisis, the unity and resilience of communities shine through as neighbors and authorities come together to support those affected.

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