Severe Weather Strikes Southwestern Oklahoma, Tornadoes Cause Damage

In Southwestern Oklahoma, a tornado made landfall near the town of Granite, which has a population of approximately 1,600 residents. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported the tornado’s occurrence amidst a broader severe weather alert across Western Oklahoma, with tornado warnings in effect until 5:30 a.m. CST Monday.

The NWS highlighted that thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes were intensifying in the region. The alert extended over 14 counties, including Canadian, Cleveland, Grady, McClain, Oklahoma, Carter, Garvin, Jefferson, Love, Murray, Stephens, Caddo, Comanche, and Cotton. The NWS urged residents in all affected areas to «TAKE COVER NOW,» advising them to move to storm shelters or the lowest floors of sturdy buildings away from windows.

The severe weather included reports of «golf ball»-sized hail and potential damage to mobile homes, roofs, windows, and vehicles. The NWS office in Norman, Oklahoma, also warned about the possibility of localized heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

Granite, located in Greer County, experienced power outages, affecting at least one individual, according to the service. The region is situated within ‘Tornado Alley,’ known for frequent tornado activity due to its unique atmospheric conditions. Dan Kottlowski, a Senior Meteorologist at AccuWeather, explained that the interaction between dry air from the Mexican Plateau and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico creates the conditions that lead to thunderstorm and tornado formations.

In addition to Oklahoma, several counties in Texas, including Archer, Clay, and Wichita, were put under tornado watches. Prior incidents in Oklahoma City saw significant damage and residents requiring assistance due to storms and tornadoes. A spokesperson from the Oklahoma Police Department (OKPD) stated that previous storms resulted in substantial property damage, with 55,000 residents losing power. The Red Cross provided shelter for those displaced.