Sulphur, Oklahoma woke up to a scene of destruction on Sunday as the sun rose over the aftermath of severe weather that ravaged several counties in the state. Reports of structural damage, closed highways, blackouts, injuries, and tragically, at least five deaths have been confirmed. Overnight, there were reports of 35 tornadoes in the area, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
The National Weather Service office in Norman, Oklahoma, confirmed late Saturday the presence of multiple tornadoes in the area, including one near Davenport and more than one in Sulphur. Preliminary damage assessments revealed tornadoes with EF3 ratings in Sulphur and Marietta. The extent of the damage caused by these tornadoes is still being investigated.
In Sulphur, significant damage was reported by the Murray County Emergency Management, while in Marietta, the storms damaged the local hospital and overturned four semitrucks on Interstate 35, resulting in one fatality. The devastation also reached Holdenville, where two lives were lost, including that of a 4-month-old infant.
As the cleanup and recovery efforts continue, the Oklahoma Health Department reported over 100 injuries from the storms, with various types of injuries ranging from cuts to transportation-related injuries. Meanwhile, the Red Cross Oklahoma has stepped in to provide assistance by opening shelters in Sulphur and collaborating with officials across multiple counties.
Further south, in neighboring Hughes County, officials reported additional injuries and significant damage after a tornado swept through the area. Emergency management teams in various counties are assessing the extent of the destruction, with reports of damaged homes and structures in communities across Oklahoma.
The aftermath of the severe weather also affected Nebraska and Iowa, where damage from tornadoes on Friday is still being addressed. Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert praised the early warnings from the National Weather Service and local media that likely prevented additional injuries and fatalities. Relief efforts are underway, with emergency declarations being signed to facilitate recovery aid for affected residents.
Across the region, communities are reeling from the impact of the back-to-back severe weather events, with officials and residents alike coming together to support one another in the wake of the devastation. As recovery and rebuilding efforts begin, the resilience of the affected communities shines through amidst the challenges they face.