Devastating Tornado Outbreak Hits Oklahoma: Death Toll Rises and State of Emergency Declared

A catastrophic tornado outbreak has struck Sulphur and Holdenville in Oklahoma, leaving a trail of destruction and a rising death toll in its wake. The National Weather Service office in Norman has reported at least 20 tornadoes hitting the state with more expected as assessments continue.

Gov. Kevin Stitt has declared a state of emergency in several counties, including Sulphur, in response to the extensive damage caused by the tornadoes. The small business community, exemplified by The Mix Mercantile in downtown Sulphur, has been particularly hard-hit with buildings left unrecognizable.

As the death toll continues to rise, with tragic reports of casualties including a 4-month-old infant in Holdenville, search and rescue operations are underway in affected areas. The devastation has prompted emergency shelters to open at Crossway Church and Christ Community Church, with organizations like the American Red Cross, BancFirst, and Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief providing assistance.

The Salvation Army has also mobilized to aid first responders in Murray County, where the impact of the tornadoes has been severe. The cleanup efforts are ongoing, but the community is reeling from the scale of the destruction.