US: Recovery operations continue following tornado damage in parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas as of early Feb. 27

Event

Recovery operations are ongoing across parts of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas as of early Feb. 27 following tornado activity late Feb. 26. At least seven tornadoes were confirmed as a band of severe thunderstorms passed through the Texas Panhandle into Oklahoma and Kansas. Winds gusting up to 183 kph (114 mph) were recorded in Memphis, Texas. One tornado-related fatality has been reported in Cheyenne, Okla., and at least 12 others have been injured across the state. Tornadoes and strong winds have caused varying degrees of damage in several locations across the affected area, including Liberal, Kan., Norman and Sweetwater in Okla., and Mclean and Memphis in Texas. As of early Feb. 27, nearly 38,000 customers are without power in Oklahoma following the passing of the storms, as well as more than 20,000 in Texas and around 1,800 in Kansas.

Emergency service response operations are ongoing in the impacted regions and are almost certain to continue over the coming days. Associated responses and tornado damage are likely to result in localized ground and rail travel delays in the coming days. Employees may be affected by business and school closures.

Advice

Monitor local emergency broadcast channels and media for updates from the authorities. Confirm the status of road and rail routes as well as airports before traveling in the area. Heed the instructions of local officials. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.