Holdenville, Oklahoma – A devastating tornado outbreak swept through Oklahoma late Saturday night, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The towns of Sulphur and Holdenville were among the hardest hit areas, with at least two tragic fatalities reported, including a 4-month-old. As authorities continue to assess the damage on Sunday morning, the full extent of the devastation caused by the tornado outbreak remains unclear.
Hughes County Emergency Management confirmed the heartbreaking news of the two casualties in Holdenville, with one victim being the young infant. Details about the second victim have not been released yet. Tragically, the 4-month-old was found after an overnight search but did not survive despite efforts to rush them to a nearby hospital.
Meteorologist Sabrina Bates from KOCO 5 revealed that the National Weather Service recorded a staggering count of at least 20 tornadoes hitting Oklahoma on Saturday, a number expected to rise. The aftermath of the storm is evident from northern Oklahoma down to the Red River, with significant damage observed in Sulphur and Holdenville.
Numerous counties across Oklahoma reported various levels of storm damage. From power outages in Ardmore to flooding in Duncan and road closures due to debris in Holdenville, the impact of the tornado outbreak is widespread. Governor Kevin Stitt wasted no time in declaring a state of emergency in several counties, acknowledging the urgent need for relief efforts to address the extensive damage caused by the severe storms.
In response to the crisis, the American Red Cross swiftly opened a shelter at Crossway Church in Sulphur, providing a safe haven for those affected by the tornado outbreak. The Murray County Sheriff’s Office also designated the church as a reunification center for individuals searching for their loved ones amidst the chaos.
As recovery and cleanup efforts begin in the wake of the tornado outbreak, communities in Oklahoma unite in solidarity to support one another during this challenging time. The road to rebuilding and healing will be long, but the resilience and spirit of Oklahomans shine through in the face of adversity.