Situation Update

Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:       May 10, 2008 – 7:30 p.m. – Situation Update 1

FOR MORE INFORMATION:         Michelann Ooten, Public Information Officer

                                                       

TORNADOES REPORTED IN NORTHEAST, SOUTHEAST AREAS OF STATE 

 

A strong storm system moved across Kansas during the day, producing strong wind shear aloft.  As this system approached, tropical moisture from the Gulf of Mexico moved into Oklahoma.  This combined with daytime heating to produce a very unstable atmosphere.  Storms rapidly developed this afternoon and became super cells.  These storms went on to produce numerous tornadoes as they moved east at 35-45 mph.

A cold front will move through the state tonight, ending the severe weather threat as it passes.

 

Injuries and Fatalities

Injuries reported in Ottawa County.

 

Damages

Ottawa County Emergency Management reports damage to homes in Picher, Peoria and Quapaw. First responders are working to free people trapped in the rubble.

 

Pittsburg County Emergency Management reports damage in the community of Yanush. Some people reported trapped in their cellars.

 

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) reports a tornado crossed the Will Rogers Turnpike at mile marker 325.

 

State Assistance

OHP has personnel on the ground in the affected areas in Ottawa and Pittsburg counties. Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) personnel are en route to Ottawa County.

No additional requests for assistance at this time.

 

Power Outages

PSO reports about 3,000 customers without electric service. Most outages are reported in central and eastern Tulsa as well as in the McAlester area.   

 

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