Sulphur and Marietta, Oklahoma – A tornado outbreak in Oklahoma has left devastation in its wake, claiming the lives of at least five people, including an infant. The storms brought multiple large and highly dangerous tornadoes of EF-3 strength or higher to Sulphur and Marietta, as confirmed by the National Weather Service.
Oklahoma’s Office of Emergency Management reported three fatalities, with one occurring near Marietta along I-35 and two others in Holdenville. Governor Kevin Stitt sadly announced a fourth casualty in Sulphur’s downtown area. Tragically, one of the victims in Holdenville was just four months old, according to Stitt’s press secretary.
The aftermath of the tornado in Marietta resulted in the overturning of four semitrucks on Interstate 35, claiming one life, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. The National Weather Service office in Norman confirmed multiple tornadoes in the region, including one near Davenport and several in Sulphur, a community of about 5,000 residents located 80 miles south of Oklahoma City.
Sulphur faced significant damage, with reports of buildings suffering substantial structural damage, uprooted trees, and debris scattered throughout the area. Videos shared on social media depicted the extent of the destruction, showing blown-out windows, missing walls, and buildings reduced to rubble.
Hospitals in the area reported 100 injuries, with 25 individuals sustaining cuts or piercing wounds, 30 falling, 16 struck by objects, 17 injuries related to transportation incidents, and 12 injured by other means. The severity of these injuries remains unknown. The Red Cross Oklahoma announced the establishment of a shelter in Sulphur and is working across multiple counties to provide aid to affected residents.
Flash flooding remains a concern for 18 million people from Kansas City to Lake Charles, Louisiana, with some flood warnings expected to last into Monday. The community is coming together to support those affected by the tornado outbreak, showcasing resilience and unity in the face of tragedy.