A powerful storm system that swept across Okmulgee County late Saturday night into early Sunday morning produced at least two confirmed tornadoes, both rated EF-0 by the National Weather Service. While no injuries were reported, the back-toback twisters caused widespread damage, power outages, and travel disruptions, prompting a strong local and state emergency response.
A powerful storm system that swept across Okmulgee County late Saturday night into early Sunday morning produced at least two confirmed tornadoes, both rated EF-0 by the National Weather Service. While no injuries were reported, the back-toback twisters caused widespread damage, power outages, and travel disruptions, prompting a strong local and state emergency response.
The first tornado touched down just after midnight in Okmulgee, south of Liberty Road and west of N. 300 Road. Estimated to have wind speeds between 65 and 85 mph, the tornado was brief - lasting approximately three minutes - but destructive. It knocked down power lines, created hazardous road conditions, and was responsible for a motor vehicle accident. A vehicle struck two telephone poles and live power lines before colliding with a barn roof that had been ripped from its struc- ture and thrown onto the road by the intense winds.
Shortly afterward, a second tornado struck north of Morris between 12:29 a.m. and 12:44 a.m. According to Okmulgee County Emergency Management Director Jeffrey Moore, this tornado - also rated between EF-0 and EF-1 - traveled at around 60 miles per hour and primarily impacted the area near Highway 52 and Gun Club Road.
“We had a huge inflow of about 70-knot winds,” Moore explained. The storm resulted in downed power lines at multiple intersections and caused damage to trees and outbuildings. In one dramatic scene, a silver Nissan Sentra was found wrapped in power lines. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is currently investigating the incident, and the status of the driver is still unknown.
Emergency management and local officials sprang into action quickly across the county. County Commissioners Steven Ward, Sr., Ron Wallace, and Interim Commissioner Ernie Ferreira coordinated road closures and damage assessments alongside local law enforcement, including the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Morris Police Department, and Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police.
Utility companies, including East Central Electric Cooperative and Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), worked tirelessly throughout Sunday to address extensive power outages. While many areas have seen electricity restored, some roadways remain closed as crews continue cleanup and repairs.
The National Weather Service confirmed both tornadoes after conducting damage assessments in collaboration with local emergency management teams. Their evaluations included analysis of wind patterns and the physical destruction path left behind.
Moore emphasized the importance of readiness in the face of sudden severe weather. “Preparedness saves lives,” he stated, urging residents to sign up for emergency notifications through Smart 911 and remain vigilant, especially with more storms expected in the coming days.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring official channels for updates on cleanup efforts and potential future weather threats. Anyone who encounters downed power lines or road hazards is advised to report them immediately and avoid the area until crews deem it safe.
Cleanup and recovery operations remain ongoing across Okmulgee County.
