20 Apr 2023 | 09:06 AM UTC
US: Authorities responding to tornado damage in parts of central Oklahoma early April 20
Response operations ongoing following tornado damage in central Oklahoma, US, early April 20. Casualties reported; power outages ongoing
Event
Response operations are ongoing early April 20 after several tornadoes struck parts of central Oklahoma as severe storms passed through the area late April 19. One tornado struck the town of Cole in McClain County. Authorities have reported two fatalities, and others have been trapped inside shelters; search and rescue operations are ongoing. Storm damage was also reported at the Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee, Pottawatomie County. As of early April 20, nearly 20,000 customers across the affected region were without power, the majority of which were in Pottawatomie County.
Associated responses and tornado damage are likely to result in localized ground and rail travel delays in the area over the coming days. Employees may be affected by possible business and school closures.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Be prepared to move quickly to a safe location if new warnings are issued. Postpone driving until weather conditions improve. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur. Strictly heed the instructions of local authorities.
