Deadly tornadoes claim 4 lives in Oklahoma | National and Global News

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Deadly tornado outbreak in Oklahoma leaves four dead, thousands without power

SULPHUR, Okla. (AP) — A destructive outbreak of severe weather in Oklahoma resulted in the deaths of four people and left thousands without power on Sunday. Tornadoes tore through the heart of a rural town, flattening buildings and injuring at least 100 people across the state.

The town of Sulphur, with a population of about 5,000 people, was hit particularly hard. Many downtown buildings were reduced to rubble, and roofs were ripped off houses in a 15-block radius. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, who visited the devastated town, described the destruction as unbelievable, with nearly every business downtown destroyed.

In Sulphur alone, about 30 people were injured, including some who were in a bar when the tornado struck. Hospitals across the state reported around 100 injuries, ranging from cuts and debris-related injuries to falls.

The tornado in Sulphur originated in a city park before tearing through the downtown area, flipping cars and destroying brick buildings. The devastation left residents like Kelly Trussell, a lifelong Sulphur resident, wondering how to rebuild in the face of such complete destruction.

Further north, a tornado near Holdenville claimed two lives and damaged or destroyed more than a dozen homes. Another fatality was reported near Marietta.

The severe weather also brought heavy rains, causing dangerous flooding and water rescues. Stitt declared a state of emergency in 12 counties and more than 20,000 customers were still without power as of late Sunday afternoon.

The aftermath of the tornado outbreak extended beyond Oklahoma, with Nebraska and Iowa also facing significant damage. Governors in both states toured the affected areas and are seeking federal assistance for the impacted communities.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.