Oklahoma communities devastated by tornadoes face an extensive cleanup following a weekend of deadly storms that claimed the lives of four individuals, including an infant, amid a widespread outbreak of severe weather across the central U.S.
Beginning late Saturday, relentless storms tore through Oklahoma, leaving over 100 individuals injured, damaging a rural hospital, rendering roads impassable, and cutting power to more than 40,000 customers at its peak, state officials reported. Tornadoes in Iowa and Nebraska on Friday also caused significant destruction, resulting in one fatality.
Emergency responders conducted search and rescue operations at a downtown Sulphur sports bar, where at least one individual remained unaccounted for. Details on who was present during the storm at the sports bar remain unclear.
During a Sunday news briefing, Governor Kevin Stitt confirmed the recovery of a woman's body from the debris near a bar in downtown Sulphur. Additionally, over 30 people sustained injuries during the storms.
The Artesian Hotel in Sulphur sustained damage to its south side, including numerous broken windows, and lost power with the water and gas mains shut off for safety. Fortunately, no injuries among the hotel's staff or guests were reported.
"The storms overnight caused significant damage and devastation in the area. Our thoughts are with the Sulphur community during this time. We will actively support local relief efforts to assist those affected by the storm," the hotel stated.
The National Weather Service has confirmed at least 20 tornadoes in Oklahoma during this weather event. Three additional fatalities were reported in Oklahoma as a result of the storms.
