Oklahoma was hit by severe tornadoes on Wednesday, leaving at least three people dead and causing significant damage across the state (KOCO). The storms, which started on Wednesday and continued into Thursday, touched down in several towns and caused widespread destruction. Shawnee, a busy city, was hit particularly hard with reports of significant damage to Oklahoma Baptist University (Fox Weather).
The tornadoes were part of a larger system that left 50 million people from Texas to Wisconsin under threat of severe storms (CNN). Several homes were destroyed and there were reports of power outages across the state (The Oklahoman). Rescue work continued on Thursday as responders searched for anyone who might be trapped in the rubble (CNN).
At least nine tornadoes touched down in Oklahoma, and one tore through Shawnee, causing heavy damage in the area (KOCO). The tornadoes caused significant damage to buildings and homes across the state, leaving many residents without shelter (KFOR). A tornado watch was issued for several Oklahoma counties, including Tulsa, and was in effect until midnight (KJRH).
The storms moved quickly through central Oklahoma, bringing with them strong winds, hail and lightning. The storms were particularly fierce, resulting in two deaths and causing significant damage across the state (FOX23 News). The destruction caused by the tornadoes underscored the dangers of living in a tornado-prone area and the importance of following safety guidelines during these events.
The severe tornado outbreak left many residents in Oklahoma feeling shocked and vulnerable, but also grateful for the support of their communities and first responders (News 9). As the state begins the process of rebuilding, residents are reflecting on the damage caused and bracing themselves for the possibility of more severe weather as the spring season continues (The Weather Channel).