Sulphur, OK Natural Disasters and Weather Extremes
The chance of earthquake damage in Sulphur is about the same as Oklahoma average and is much lower than the national average. The risk of tornado damage in Sulphur is lower than Oklahoma average and is much higher than the national average.
Earthquake Index, #145
Sulphur, OK | 0.20 |
Oklahoma | 0.31 |
U.S. | 1.81 |
The earthquake index value is calculated based on historical earthquake events data using USA.com algorithms. It is an indicator of the earthquake level in a region. A higher earthquake index value means a higher chance of an earthquake.
Volcano Index, #1
Sulphur, OK | 0.0000 |
Oklahoma | 0.0000 |
U.S. | 0.0023 |
The volcano index value is calculated based on the currently known volcanoes using USA.com algorithms. It is an indicator of the possibility of a region being affected by a possible volcano eruption. A higher volcano index value means a higher chance of being affected.
Tornado Index, #251
Sulphur, OK | 350.20 |
Oklahoma | 363.83 |
U.S. | 136.45 |
The tornado index value is calculated based on historical tornado events data using USA.com algorithms. It is an indicator of the tornado level in a region. A higher tornado index value means a higher chance of tornado events.
Other Weather Extremes Events
A total of 4,133 other weather extremes events within 50 miles of Sulphur, OK were recorded from 1950 to 2010. The following is a break down of these events:
Type | Count | Type | Count | Type | Count | Type | Count | Type | Count |
Avalanche: | 0 | Blizzard: | 2 | Cold: | 4 | Dense Fog: | 13 | Drought: | 29 |
Dust Storm: | 0 | Flood: | 157 | Hail: | 2,365 | Heat: | 14 | Heavy Snow: | 46 |
High Surf: | 0 | Hurricane: | 0 | Ice Storm: | 22 | Landslide: | 0 | Strong Wind: | 26 |
Thunderstorm Winds: | 1,279 | Tropical Storm: | 0 | Wildfire: | 3 | Winter Storm: | 33 | Winter Weather: | 28 |
Other: | 112 |
Volcanos Nearby
No volcano is found in or near Sulphur, OK.
Historical Earthquake Events
A total of 2 historical earthquake events that had recorded magnitudes of 3.5 or above found in or near Sulphur, OK.
Distance (miles) | Date | Magnitude | Depth (km) | Latitude | Longitude |
21.6 | 1975-11-29 | 3.5 | N/A | 34.52 | -97.35 |
49.0 | 1981-07-11 | 3.5 | 5 | 34.85 | -97.73 |
Historical Tornado Events
A total of 148 historical tornado events that had recorded magnitude of 2 or above found in or near Sulphur, OK.
Distance (miles) | Date | Magnitude | Start Lat/Log | End Lat/Log | Length | Width | Fatalities | Injuries | Property Damage | Crop Damage | Affected County |
5.6 | 1983-05-13 | 2 | 34°25'N / 97°06'W | 34°30'N / 96°59'W | 7.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Murray |
5.6 | 1953-06-05 | 3 | 34°38'N / 97°10'W | 34°28'N / 96°57'W | 16.90 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Garvin |
5.9 | 1957-04-02 | 2 | 34°33'N / 96°55'W | 34°38'N / 96°56'W | 5.70 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Murray |
6.6 | 1992-05-11 | 2 | 34°33'N / 96°54'W | 34°34'N / 96°50'W | 2.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Murray |
7.1 | 1979-10-21 | 2 | 34°37'N / 96°58'W | 1.00 Mile | 60 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Murray | |
7.9 | 1963-11-19 | 2 | 34°24'N / 96°58'W | 1.00 Mile | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Murray | |
9.2 | 1992-05-11 | 2 | 34°34'N / 96°50'W | 34°35'N / 96°49'W | 1.00 Mile | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc |
9.8 | 1958-11-17 | 2 | 34°29'N / 97°10'W | 34°31'N / 97°07'W | 3.60 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Murray |
10.2 | 1984-05-02 | 2 | 34°38'N / 96°56'W | 34°40'N / 96°52'W | 4.50 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Garvin |
11.0 | 1960-05-05 | 2 | 34°38'N / 97°10'W | 34°34'N / 97°06'W | 5.90 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Garvin |
11.2 | 1957-04-02 | 2 | 34°38'N / 96°56'W | 34°43'N / 96°57'W | 5.90 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 1 | 25K | 0 | Garvin |
11.2 | 1970-06-11 | 2 | 34°30'N / 97°10'W | 2.00 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Murray | |
12.2 | 1957-04-02 | 2 | 34°24'N / 97°08'W | 2.00 Miles | 600 Yards | 1 | 2 | 250K | 0 | Murray | |
13.9 | 1984-05-02 | 2 | 34°39'N / 97°09'W | 2.50 Miles | 77 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Garvin | |
15.6 | 1957-05-24 | 2 | 34°37'N / 97°11'W | 34°45'N / 97°07'W | 10.00 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Garvin |
16.1 | 1960-01-14 | 2 | 34°42'N / 96°48'W | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Pontotoc | |||
16.3 | 1953-06-05 | 2 | 34°40'N / 96°45'W | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc | |||
16.9 | 1972-04-19 | 4 | 34°30'N / 97°21'W | 34°33'N / 97°11'W | 10.10 Miles | 33 Yards | 5 | 3 | 25K | 0 | Garvin |
17.9 | 1975-11-19 | 2 | 34°42'N / 96°45'W | 2.50 Miles | 50 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Pontotoc | |
18.3 | 1983-06-28 | 2 | 34°21'N / 96°43'W | 0.10 Mile | 10 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Johnston | |
18.6 | 1971-04-22 | 2 | 34°37'N / 96°40'W | 1.00 Mile | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Pontotoc | |
19.6 | 1977-03-02 | 2 | 34°19'N / 97°13'W | 1.00 Mile | 33 Yards | 0 | 5 | 25K | 0 | Carter | |
19.8 | 1961-02-17 | 3 | 34°48'N / 96°57'W | 2.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 1 | 2.5M | 0 | Garvin | |
19.8 | 1972-04-19 | 4 | 34°29'N / 97°21'W | 34°30'N / 97°17'W | 4.30 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Murray |
20.0 | 1990-03-13 | 2 | 34°30'N / 97°27'W | 34°49'N / 97°06'W | 28.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Garvin |
20.6 | 1953-03-13 | 3 | 34°11'N / 96°57'W | 34°19'N / 96°39'W | 19.50 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Carter |
21.3 | 1961-03-05 | 2 | 34°44'N / 97°14'W | 1.00 Mile | 100 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Garvin | |
21.3 | 1954-05-24 | 2 | 34°18'N / 96°42'W | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Johnston | |||
22.1 | 1979-10-30 | 3 | 34°14'N / 97°16'W | 34°21'N / 97°14'W | 8.40 Miles | 530 Yards | 3 | 2 | 250K | 0 | Carter |
22.5 | 1973-04-19 | 2 | 34°42'N / 97°18'W | 34°52'N / 97°05'W | 16.80 Miles | 250 Yards | 0 | 2 | 2.5M | 0 | Garvin |
22.6 | 1970-04-18 | 2 | 34°44'N / 96°44'W | 34°48'N / 96°42'W | 5.20 Miles | 50 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc |
23.0 | 1992-05-11 | 2 | 34°37'N / 96°38'W | 34°41'N / 96°34'W | 5.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc |
23.1 | 1958-11-17 | 2 | 34°48'N / 96°57'W | 34°53'N / 96°50'W | 8.80 Miles | 500 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Garvin |
23.1 | 1959-03-25 | 2 | 34°11'N / 97°08'W | 34°13'N / 97°05'W | 3.80 Miles | 50 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Carter |
23.7 | 1970-06-11 | 2 | 34°36'N / 96°34'W | 2.50 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc | |
24.8 | 1977-05-19 | 2 | 34°47'N / 97°15'W | 34°49'N / 97°13'W | 3.30 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 1 | 25K | 0 | Garvin |
25.0 | 1954-09-07 | 2 | 34°37'N / 96°35'W | 34°40'N / 96°32'W | 4.50 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Pontotoc |
25.4 | 2001-04-11 | 2 | 34°34'N / 96°34'W | 34°37'N / 96°30'W | 5.50 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 45K | 0 | Pontotoc |
Brief Description: This tornado formed 2.5 miles southwest of Jesse in Pontotoc County and tracked northeastward for 15 miles, crossed through northwest Coal County, then re-entered eastern Pontotoc County before dissipating. A mobile home and barn were destroyed, and power poles were downed 1.5 miles west of Jesse. The mobile home was picked up, thrown northward over a fence and completely broken apart with contents spread over a half-mile area. About 1 mile northwest of Jesse, a barn was destroyed; oil storage tanks were overturned and smashed; an oil pumping unit was overturned and torn apart; power poles were downed, and fences were blown over. Six tornadoes across southern Oklahoma and one tornado across western north Texas developed during the overnight hours of the 11th. The most notable tornado formed across Coal County in Oklahoma and resulted in one fatality and one injury as it destroyed a mobile home. In addition to damage produced by severe thunderstorms, sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph with gusts as high as 73 mph developed just ahead of the most frequent period of severe weather and persisted for several hours. In Tillman County, at 2330 CST on the 10th, a barn roof was damaged 3 miles east of Frederick. A barn roof was blown off, and a fence was downed 4 miles east of Frederick, and a house roof sustained minor damage 4 miles north of Frederick. Trees and power lines were downed in Ponca City in Kay County, while in Garfield County, minor but widespread damage, was sustained to trees, power poles, and numerous other structures. | |||||||||||
25.5 | 2010-05-10 | 3 | 34°14'N / 97°19'W | 34°16'N / 97°15'W | 5.00 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0K | Carter |
Brief Description: EVENT NARRATIVE: At least 4 mobile homes and 1 foundation home were destroyed by a large tornado. Other homes and outbuildings sustained minor to moderate damage. Widespread tree and power line damage was also noted along its track, and some high tension lines were downed. This tornado is labeled #E3. Monetary damages were estimated. EPISODE NARRATIVE: A significant outbreak of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes affected a large part of northern, central, and southern Oklahoma. Tornadoes were most numerous across central and southern Oklahoma, with significant damage occurring over many areas. Severe thunderstorms erupted by mid afternoon across northern and western Oklahoma. Given the potent combination of ingredients in place, storms began to produce tornadoes quickly after initiation. Storm motions of 50 to 60 mph were common. During the mid afternoon hours, severe weather was confined to northern Oklahoma. It was there a long track supercell storm produced tornadoes near the Kansas border - including one rated EF3 - from near Wakita to north of Braman. The capping inversion that had delayed thunderstorm development into central Oklahoma weakened, allowing for explosive supercell development along the dry line along and west of the Interstate 35 corridor. Rapid development and intensification was common with the late afternoon storms, with storms becoming tornadic within a very short time after initiation. This round of storms would directly impact a large part of the Oklahoma City metro area at rush hour, and posed a significant threat to the area. The first tornado in this area occurred in Canadian County. During the next several hours, tornadoes were clustered around the metro area, and at times there were multiple significant damaging tornadoes occurring simultaneously. Several of the tornadoes had long tracks. Damage from the tornadoes was substantial, with numerous structures, vehicles, trees and power poles/lines significantly damaged or destroyed. One of the more intense tornadoes moved across Lake Thunderbird east of Norman destroying numerous boats. More storms developed across southwest and south central Oklahoma, and also quickly became tornadic. By 9 pm, 35 tornadoes had been reported. While the loss of three lives was tragic, the casualties could have been much higher given the storm's fast motions, their intensity, the time of day and the areas impacted. While exact monetary damage figures were not available, it is estimated that losses were in excess of $595 million. At least 450 sustained injuries, most of them minor. Unfortunately three people lost their lives. Note: The large number of injuries and tornadoes made it difficult to associate injuries with specific tornadoes. Injury numbers were included when we had confidence in the numbers. Note: The complex nature of storm evolutions and interactions made the job of classifying tornadoes difficult. This represents our best scientific assessment based on ground and aerial surveys, data from multiple radars, photographic and video evidence and anecdotal information. | |||||||||||
25.6 | 1959-05-09 | 4 | 34°37'N / 96°35'W | 34°41'N / 96°31'W | 6.20 Miles | 900 Yards | 7 | 12 | 250K | 0 | Pontotoc |
25.9 | 1990-03-13 | 3 | 34°31'N / 97°26'W | 34°31'N / 97°25'W | 1.00 Mile | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Garvin |
25.9 | 1991-03-21 | 3 | 34°46'N / 96°47'W | 34°52'N / 96°37'W | 11.00 Miles | 350 Yards | 0 | 2 | 2.5M | 0 | Pontotoc |
26.0 | 1961-02-17 | 3 | 34°49'N / 96°55'W | 34°56'N / 96°46'W | 12.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Pontotoc |
26.4 | 1990-04-09 | 2 | 34°08'N / 97°16'W | 34°13'N / 97°06'W | 11.00 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 4 | 250K | 0 | Carter |
26.5 | 1985-04-29 | 2 | 34°05'N / 97°11'W | 34°13'N / 97°03'W | 11.50 Miles | 880 Yards | 0 | 1 | 2.5M | 0 | Carter |
26.6 | 1962-07-20 | 2 | 34°46'N / 96°37'W | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Pontotoc | |||
26.8 | 1972-04-19 | 4 | 34°25'N / 97°31'W | 34°29'N / 97°21'W | 10.50 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Carter |
28.4 | 1982-03-15 | 3 | 34°48'N / 96°42'W | 34°51'N / 96°35'W | 6.00 Miles | 60 Yards | 1 | 36 | 2.5M | 0 | Pontotoc |
28.6 | 1973-04-20 | 3 | 34°47'N / 96°41'W | 34°53'N / 96°37'W | 7.90 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 21 | 2.5M | 0 | Pontotoc |
28.9 | 2003-05-08 | 2 | 34°04'N / 96°57'W | 34°08'N / 96°51'W | 7.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 100K | 0 | Marshall |
Brief Description: This strong F2 tornado is the final of three Oklahoma tornadoes produced by a supercell that moved across south central Oklahoma. The tornado was seen by spotters touching down approximately a mile east of the Carter-Marshall county line. The tornado then moved northeast before dissipating north of Antioch. The most significant damage was sustained in an area about three miles west of Antioch along Highway 70. A wood frame home lost its roof and two walls. Two barns also lost roofs in this area. A forty foot by one hundred foot barn south of Highway 70 was heavily damaged. Three tractors were also damaged. One of the tractors was hooked up to a hay baler and was moved 100 yards. This was the first of three tornadic events in two days for Oklahoma. The other two events occurred on the afternoon of May 8 and on May 9, 2003 (see appropriate storm data). The five tornadoes that occurred in south central Oklahoma all happened after midnight with the strongest tornadoes producing F2 damage. One large supercell produced the three strongest tornadoes of the night. | |||||||||||
29.0 | 1959-05-26 | 3 | 34°19'N / 97°27'W | 34°20'N / 97°24'W | 3.30 Miles | 60 Yards | 0 | 8 | 25K | 0 | Carter |
29.3 | 2009-02-10 | 4 | 34°04'N / 97°24'W | 34°15'N / 97°06'W | 21.00 Miles | 880 Yards | 8 | 0 | 3.0M | 0K | Carter |
Brief Description: EVENT NARRATIVE: This long track tornado developed over far southeast Jefferson County, near the Red River, and continued northeast into Love County crossing through rural farmland north of Courtney, Rubottom and Oswalt. The tornado then crossed into Carter County, with sporadic damage noted in the sparsely populated areas in the southwest part of the county. The tornado appeared to reach its maximum width and intensity as it approached and moved through Lone Grove. The tornado destroyed or severely damaged numerous mobile homes, homes and businesses in and around Lone Grove. Numerous mobile homes were completely obliterated with few recognizable pieces left. EF4 damage was noted at two locations, one in Lone Grove and the other in the Majestic Hills area north of Ardmore. Numerous vehicles were rolled or thrown, some for considerable distances. Six of the fatalities occurred in mobile homes and one in a well-built home that sustained EF4 damage. The eighth fatality occurred when a truck driving south on Interstate 35 was hit by the tornado killing the driver. The tornado continued northeast, with major damage reported in the Majestic Hills addition and crossing Interstate-35 about a mile and a half north of the Prairie Valley Road exit. At least eight homes and a small private school were destroyed in the Majestic Hills neighborhood. It moved through rural areas of Northeast Carter County to the east of Springer. Approximately 46 people were injured, with 14 seriously injured. Eight people died in the Lone Grove area. At least 114 homes were damaged or destroyed, with at least 3500 losing power in and around Carter county. Debris from this tornado was picked up as far away as Sulphur. Monetary damage estimates were not available. EPISODE NARRATIVE: Thunderstorms developed early in the afternoon, from near the Lawton area, northeast toward the Oklahoma metro area. Thunderstorms became severe relatively quickly as they moved through Caddo and Grady counties, and began to show signs of rotation as they moved toward western Oklahoma City. One supercell thunderstorm spawned several tornadoes as it moved through western and northern Oklahoma. Sporadic damage was reported along its path, some of it significant as it moved through northern Oklahoma county and southern Logan county. Other supercells developed near the same areas of Caddo and Grady counties and moved northeast. Some locations received several rounds of very large hail through the afternoon. Later in the afternoon, a second area of thunderstorms developed over northern Texas. Several supercell thunderstorms developed and moved northeast toward the Red River. One supercell thunderstorm moved northeast over Clay county and northwest Montague county. A tornado developed as it moved into Jefferson county near the Red River. It continued northeast through western Love county and into Carter County. Significant damage was reported in and around the Lone Grove area and over the far north sides of Ardmore. There were eight fatalities in and around Lone Grove. The tornado crossed Interstate 35 and eventually crossed into southern Murray county. Wind damage was reported in Coal and Atoka counties. Minor injuries were reported with the Atoka county thunderstorms. Monetary damages were estimated. | |||||||||||
29.4 | 1959-05-10 | 2 | 34°54'N / 96°45'W | 2.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Seminole | |
29.5 | 1968-04-19 | 2 | 34°50'N / 96°40'W | 34°52'N / 96°38'W | 3.30 Miles | 27 Yards | 0 | 2 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc |
29.6 | 2001-04-11 | 2 | 34°38'N / 96°30'W | 34°40'N / 96°27'W | 4.50 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 400K | 0 | Coal |
Brief Description: This tornado formed in Pontotoc County and crossed into Coal County at approximately 0349 CST, then re-entered Pontotoc County at approximately 0356 CST. Nineteen power transmission towers, 3 for major trunk power lines, were downed across this area. Six tornadoes across southern Oklahoma and one tornado across western north Texas developed during the overnight hours of the 11th. The most notable tornado formed across Coal County in Oklahoma and resulted in one fatality and one injury as it destroyed a mobile home. In addition to damage produced by severe thunderstorms, sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph with gusts as high as 73 mph developed just ahead of the most frequent period of severe weather and persisted for several hours. In Tillman County, at 2330 CST on the 10th, a barn roof was damaged 3 miles east of Frederick. A barn roof was blown off, and a fence was downed 4 miles east of Frederick, and a house roof sustained minor damage 4 miles north of Frederick. Trees and power lines were downed in Ponca City in Kay County, while in Garfield County, minor but widespread damage, was sustained to trees, power poles, and numerous other structures. | |||||||||||
30.1 | 1964-08-26 | 2 | 34°49'N / 97°21'W | 0.10 Mile | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Garvin | |
30.1 | 1962-05-29 | 2 | 34°15'N / 96°33'W | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Johnston | |||
30.8 | 1960-05-04 | 3 | 34°49'N / 96°50'W | 35°00'N / 96°36'W | 18.30 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 6 | 250K | 0 | Pontotoc |
31.0 | 1990-03-13 | 3 | 34°23'N / 97°35'W | 34°31'N / 97°26'W | 5.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 1 | 2.5M | 0 | Carter |
31.0 | 1976-04-19 | 2 | 34°02'N / 97°02'W | 34°06'N / 97°00'W | 5.10 Miles | 60 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Love |
32.2 | 1966-04-27 | 4 | 34°19'N / 96°32'W | 34°17'N / 96°24'W | 7.90 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 2 | 250K | 0 | Johnston |
32.4 | 2001-04-11 | 2 | 34°10'N / 96°36'W | 34°20'N / 96°24'W | 16.00 Miles | 500 Yards | 0 | 4 | 2.5M | 0 | Johnston |
Brief Description: This tornado formed over northern portions of Lake Texoma, then tracked northeastward for 16 miles before crossing into western Atoka County. About 5 miles east of Tishomingo in Johnston County, 2 injuries, both requiring hospital care, occurred when a mobile home was lofted and deposited upside-down about 40 yards from its original location. In addition, a frame home 1 mile east of Milburn was severely damaged when the roof was completely removed. Across the remainder of the damage path in Johnston County, 3 additional mobile homes were destroyed, and 21 other structures, including 1 business and 2 churches, sustained damage. Six tornadoes across southern Oklahoma and one tornado across western north Texas developed during the overnight hours of the 11th. The most notable tornado formed across Coal County in Oklahoma and resulted in one fatality and one injury as it destroyed a mobile home. In addition to damage produced by severe thunderstorms, sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph with gusts as high as 73 mph developed just ahead of the most frequent period of severe weather and persisted for several hours. In Tillman County, at 2330 CST on the 10th, a barn roof was damaged 3 miles east of Frederick. A barn roof was blown off, and a fence was downed 4 miles east of Frederick, and a house roof sustained minor damage 4 miles north of Frederick. Trees and power lines were downed in Ponca City in Kay County, while in Garfield County, minor but widespread damage, was sustained to trees, power poles, and numerous other structures. | |||||||||||
32.4 | 1957-09-14 | 4 | 34°58'N / 97°09'W | 35°00'N / 96°47'W | 20.90 Miles | 440 Yards | 2 | 6 | 250K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
32.5 | 1963-03-18 | 2 | 34°38'N / 96°25'W | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Coal | |||
32.6 | 2001-04-11 | 2 | 34°40'N / 96°28'W | 34°44'N / 96°25'W | 4.50 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 70K | 0 | Pontotoc |
Brief Description: This is the 3rd and final segment to the tornado which formed in Pontotoc County at 0340 CST, moved through Coal County, then re-entered Pontotoc County at 0356 CST. Several additional power transmission towers were downed across this area, along with substantial damage to a power substation about 1 mile southwest of Lula. Six tornadoes across southern Oklahoma and one tornado across western north Texas developed during the overnight hours of the 11th. The most notable tornado formed across Coal County in Oklahoma and resulted in one fatality and one injury as it destroyed a mobile home. In addition to damage produced by severe thunderstorms, sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph with gusts as high as 73 mph developed just ahead of the most frequent period of severe weather and persisted for several hours. In Tillman County, at 2330 CST on the 10th, a barn roof was damaged 3 miles east of Frederick. A barn roof was blown off, and a fence was downed 4 miles east of Frederick, and a house roof sustained minor damage 4 miles north of Frederick. Trees and power lines were downed in Ponca City in Kay County, while in Garfield County, minor but widespread damage, was sustained to trees, power poles, and numerous other structures. | |||||||||||
32.7 | 1979-04-10 | 3 | 34°21'N / 97°36'W | 34°30'N / 97°28'W | 12.80 Miles | 170 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Carter |
33.0 | 1953-03-13 | 3 | 33°55'N / 97°16'W | 34°11'N / 96°57'W | 25.80 Miles | 200 Yards | 2 | 11 | 25K | 0 | Love |
33.0 | 1972-04-19 | 4 | 34°23'N / 97°33'W | 34°25'N / 97°31'W | 3.30 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 3 | 25K | 0 | Carter |
33.4 | 1957-09-14 | 4 | 34°57'N / 97°15'W | 34°58'N / 97°09'W | 5.90 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Cleveland |
33.4 | 1985-04-29 | 2 | 34°03'N / 97°12'W | 34°05'N / 97°11'W | 2.50 Miles | 880 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Love |
33.5 | 1964-04-03 | 2 | 34°03'N / 96°48'W | 0.50 Mile | 123 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Marshall | |
33.7 | 1960-05-05 | 3 | 34°46'N / 97°30'W | 34°50'N / 97°24'W | 7.30 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Garvin |
33.9 | 1964-04-03 | 2 | 34°06'N / 96°39'W | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Marshall | |||
34.1 | 2003-05-08 | 2 | 34°03'N / 97°10'W | 34°02'N / 97°07'W | 4.00 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 150K | 0 | Love |
Brief Description: This is the second Oklahoma tornado of three that was produced by a supercell that moved across south central Oklahoma. This strong F2 tornado moved southeast and then turned more easterly before dissipating within Lake Murray State Park. A double-wide mobile home was destroyed by the tornado. A brick home lost two of its walls and the roof was removed. Four other homes were also heavily damaged with roofs removed and walls damaged. Two barns were also damaged. The tornado crossed Interstate 35 near mile marker 21. A tractor trailer was blown off the interstate just south of this location. The state park sustained some tree damage on the southwest side of Lake Murray. This was the first of three tornadic events in two days for Oklahoma. The other two events occurred on the afternoon of May 8 and on May 9, 2003 (see appropriate storm data). The five tornadoes that occurred in south central Oklahoma all happened after midnight with the strongest tornadoes producing F2 damage. One large supercell produced the three strongest tornadoes of the night. | |||||||||||
34.8 | 1968-05-13 | 3 | 34°56'N / 96°51'W | 35°03'N / 96°42'W | 11.60 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
34.8 | 1992-05-11 | 3 | 34°39'N / 96°26'W | 34°40'N / 96°20'W | 12.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Coal |
35.1 | 1957-07-20 | 2 | 34°14'N / 97°29'W | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Carter | |||
35.5 | 1979-04-11 | 2 | 34°02'N / 96°45'W | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Marshall | |||
35.5 | 1960-05-04 | 4 | 34°57'N / 96°48'W | 35°03'N / 96°44'W | 8.00 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
35.8 | 1957-05-25 | 2 | 34°16'N / 96°25'W | 1.00 Mile | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Johnston | |
36.4 | 2010-05-10 | 2 | 34°10'N / 97°30'W | 34°11'N / 97°25'W | 5.00 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0K | Carter |
Brief Description: EVENT NARRATIVE: Tornado #E2. Mobile homes were destroyed and seriously damaged and significant tree damage occurred as a tornado moved from 4 miles south-southwest of Healdton to 2 miles north-northwest of Wilson. EPISODE NARRATIVE: A significant outbreak of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes affected a large part of northern, central, and southern Oklahoma. Tornadoes were most numerous across central and southern Oklahoma, with significant damage occurring over many areas. Severe thunderstorms erupted by mid afternoon across northern and western Oklahoma. Given the potent combination of ingredients in place, storms began to produce tornadoes quickly after initiation. Storm motions of 50 to 60 mph were common. During the mid afternoon hours, severe weather was confined to northern Oklahoma. It was there a long track supercell storm produced tornadoes near the Kansas border - including one rated EF3 - from near Wakita to north of Braman. The capping inversion that had delayed thunderstorm development into central Oklahoma weakened, allowing for explosive supercell development along the dry line along and west of the Interstate 35 corridor. Rapid development and intensification was common with the late afternoon storms, with storms becoming tornadic within a very short time after initiation. This round of storms would directly impact a large part of the Oklahoma City metro area at rush hour, and posed a significant threat to the area. The first tornado in this area occurred in Canadian County. During the next several hours, tornadoes were clustered around the metro area, and at times there were multiple significant damaging tornadoes occurring simultaneously. Several of the tornadoes had long tracks. Damage from the tornadoes was substantial, with numerous structures, vehicles, trees and power poles/lines significantly damaged or destroyed. One of the more intense tornadoes moved across Lake Thunderbird east of Norman destroying numerous boats. More storms developed across southwest and south central Oklahoma, and also quickly became tornadic. By 9 pm, 35 tornadoes had been reported. While the loss of three lives was tragic, the casualties could have been much higher given the storm's fast motions, their intensity, the time of day and the areas impacted. While exact monetary damage figures were not available, it is estimated that losses were in excess of $595 million. At least 450 sustained injuries, most of them minor. Unfortunately three people lost their lives. Note: The large number of injuries and tornadoes made it difficult to associate injuries with specific tornadoes. Injury numbers were included when we had confidence in the numbers. Note: The complex nature of storm evolutions and interactions made the job of classifying tornadoes difficult. This represents our best scientific assessment based on ground and aerial surveys, data from multiple radars, photographic and video evidence and anecdotal information. | |||||||||||
36.7 | 1954-07-23 | 2 | 34°36'N / 96°20'W | 0.30 Mile | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Coal | |
37.1 | 1951-05-09 | 2 | 34°07'N / 96°31'W | 34°11'N / 96°28'W | 5.40 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 1 | 25K | 0 | Johnston |
37.1 | 2010-05-10 | 2 | 34°15'N / 96°25'W | 34°14'N / 96°24'W | 2.00 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.6M | 0K | Johnston |
Brief Description: EVENT NARRATIVE: This tornado is labeled #N2. The tornado developed about a mile south-southeast of Coleman and moved southeast another mile, eventually traveling just into Atoka county. Several buildings, including a home, sustained major damage. Four other homes sustained at least partial damage. The U Cross Arena and Pavilion was heavily damaged, with part of the roof moved removed, steal beams on the outside of the building knocked down, and a section of the building completely destroyed. The tornado continued across the Atoka county border. This tornado moved into Atoka County. EPISODE NARRATIVE: A significant outbreak of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes affected a large part of northern, central, and southern Oklahoma. Tornadoes were most numerous across central and southern Oklahoma, with significant damage occurring over many areas. Severe thunderstorms erupted by mid afternoon across northern and western Oklahoma. Given the potent combination of ingredients in place, storms began to produce tornadoes quickly after initiation. Storm motions of 50 to 60 mph were common. During the mid afternoon hours, severe weather was confined to northern Oklahoma. It was there a long track supercell storm produced tornadoes near the Kansas border - including one rated EF3 - from near Wakita to north of Braman. The capping inversion that had delayed thunderstorm development into central Oklahoma weakened, allowing for explosive supercell development along the dry line along and west of the Interstate 35 corridor. Rapid development and intensification was common with the late afternoon storms, with storms becoming tornadic within a very short time after initiation. This round of storms would directly impact a large part of the Oklahoma City metro area at rush hour, and posed a significant threat to the area. The first tornado in this area occurred in Canadian County. During the next several hours, tornadoes were clustered around the metro area, and at times there were multiple significant damaging tornadoes occurring simultaneously. Several of the tornadoes had long tracks. Damage from the tornadoes was substantial, with numerous structures, vehicles, trees and power poles/lines significantly damaged or destroyed. One of the more intense tornadoes moved across Lake Thunderbird east of Norman destroying numerous boats. More storms developed across southwest and south central Oklahoma, and also quickly became tornadic. By 9 pm, 35 tornadoes had been reported. While the loss of three lives was tragic, the casualties could have been much higher given the storm's fast motions, their intensity, the time of day and the areas impacted. While exact monetary damage figures were not available, it is estimated that losses were in excess of $595 million. At least 450 sustained injuries, most of them minor. Unfortunately three people lost their lives. Note: The large number of injuries and tornadoes made it difficult to associate injuries with specific tornadoes. Injury numbers were included when we had confidence in the numbers. Note: The complex nature of storm evolutions and interactions made the job of classifying tornadoes difficult. This represents our best scientific assessment based on ground and aerial surveys, data from multiple radars, photographic and video evidence and anecdotal information. | |||||||||||
37.2 | 1954-05-01 | 2 | 34°52'N / 96°35'W | 34°58'N / 96°29'W | 8.90 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pontotoc |
37.3 | 1966-04-27 | 4 | 34°17'N / 96°24'W | 34°16'N / 96°22'W | 2.30 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Atoka |
37.3 | 1960-05-05 | 3 | 34°57'N / 97°15'W | 35°07'N / 97°03'W | 16.20 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Cleveland |
37.5 | 1992-09-02 | 2 | 35°00'N / 97°24'W | 34°56'N / 97°16'W | 8.00 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Mcclain |
37.7 | 1971-12-14 | 2 | 33°56'N / 97°08'W | 34°02'N / 97°07'W | 6.90 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Love |
37.7 | 1972-12-29 | 2 | 34°54'N / 97°30'W | 34°59'N / 97°16'W | 14.50 Miles | 40 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Mcclain |
38.3 | 1992-05-11 | 2 | 34°00'N / 96°43'W | 2.00 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 13 | 2.5M | 0 | Marshall | |
38.7 | 1982-04-02 | 3 | 33°58'N / 97°07'W | 0.50 Mile | 30 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Love | |
38.9 | 1995-05-07 | 3 | 33°50'N / 97°25'W | 34°12'N / 97°10'W | 34.00 Miles | 700 Yards | 3 | 6 | 500K | 0 | Carter |
39.2 | 1951-05-09 | 2 | 34°00'N / 96°36'W | 34°07'N / 96°31'W | 9.40 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Bryan |
39.3 | 1957-04-02 | 4 | 34°00'N / 96°39'W | 34°03'N / 96°35'W | 5.20 Miles | 200 Yards | 2 | 6 | 2.5M | 0 | Marshall |
39.3 | 1977-03-02 | 2 | 34°06'N / 97°33'W | 34°11'N / 97°26'W | 8.80 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Carter |
39.7 | 1973-04-19 | 2 | 34°30'N / 97°40'W | 2.00 Miles | 83 Yards | 0 | 4 | 25K | 0 | Stephens | |
39.7 | 1957-05-24 | 2 | 34°56'N / 97°03'W | 35°14'N / 97°05'W | 20.80 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
41.0 | 1997-05-25 | 2 | 34°59'N / 97°29'W | 34°58'N / 97°22'W | 6.00 Miles | 1320 Yards | 0 | 2 | 900K | 0 | Mcclain |
Brief Description: This description was taken almost entirely, and with minimal editing, from a damage survey conducted Monday May 26th (Memorial Day), the day after the tornado, by a National Weather Service meteorologist. This tornado, rated F2, began 5 miles east of Criner, or 7 miles west-southwest of downtown Purcell, in southern McClain County. The beginning time of this tornado is not entirely certain but is believed to be near or just after 16:00 CST. This tornado tracked just south of due east for 6 miles, ending about 4 miles northwest of Wayne or 4 miles south of downtown Purcell at around 16:24 CST. At its widest, the damage path was estimated to be 3/4 mile wide. Numerous power lines were downed, prompting the temporary closing of both Highways 24 and 74 for a time during the evening. At least 18 dwellings, including mobile homes and permanent dwellings, were destroyed or suffered major damage. This probably was a multiple-vortex tornado, at least in its latter stages, based on eyewitness reports. No one was killed or seriously injured by this tornado, but two minor injuries were reported. Damage began along a concentrated path from along Highway 24 around 3 miles south and 1 mile east of Woody Chapel (which is located at the intersection of Highways 39 and 24 about 3 miles south of Washington). Details are described below, highlighting six areas along the damage track. Along Hwy 24, 5 miles east of Criner, sheet metal was scattered over about a 1/4 to 1/2 mile path, apparently the remnants of a destroyed outbuilding. Several large trees were toppled or heavily damaged in this area. Damage was F1. Tree damage also was noted over a larger area 1 mile west of this location (or 3 miles south of Woody Chapel on Highway 24), along with a few pieces of sheet metal debris. Since damage in this area was more minor (small to medium size branches broken) and not concentrated, straight-line winds were considered the likely source. Also along Hwy 24, from Hwy 112 southward for about a mile, power lines were downed along a 1/4 to 1/2 mile stretch of the road. Considerable debris was found from fallen trees, metal outbuildings, etc. Damage was F1. About 1 mile east of Hwy 24 and 1 mile south of Hwy 112, a home was unroofed. Widespread but mostly minor tree damage was noted, with trees uprooted and/or branches snapped off. Aside from the home with the damaged roof, there were few if any other manmade structures in the area. Damage probably was F1, but an exact determination could not be made since the roof was being repaired at the time of the survey. On Emu Road, 1/2 to 1 mile south of Hwy 112 and 2 miles east of Hwy 24, one permanent home was destroyed. Numerous large trees were downed - some snapped off, and others uprooted. Several of the uprooted trees fell toward the northwest, others to the southwest. Damage was considered F2. At Highway 74 and Horse Road, (3.5 to 4.5 miles east of Hwy 24 and 1 mile south of Hwy 112), the worst damage and widest damage path (about 3/4 mile wide) were in this area. Power lines were downed along Hwy 74 for nearly a mile. Numerous large trees were snapped off or uprooted. In one area between the two roads, nearly every tree suffered some kind of significant damage. Two mobile homes were destroyed along Horse Road. One was blown east and landed across the street near a church. The other rolled three times and landed 50 to 100 feet northeast of its original location. Two women, a mother and daughter, were inside the second mobile home and were lucky to escape with only minor injuries. Metal outbuildings, satellite dishes, fences, and at least one pickup truck were destroyed - mostly by impacts from other blown objects. However, the church, which was brick, sustained only minor structural damage to the exterior, as the roof was intact and only a few shingles were missing. (Broken windows in the church led to more substantial damage on the interior as rain and wind entered the building.) Damage in this area was considered F2, but the fact that the church escaped with such minor damage to its exterior suggests either a lower rating or the possibility of a multiple-vortex tornado. At least one eyewitness indicated a second tornado. Although the entire damage track appeared consistent and more-or-less continuous, suggesting only one tornado, the eyewitness account and the observed gradients in damage intensity suggest that this probably was a multiple-vortex tornado, at least in its latter stages. From 1/4 to 1/2 mile east of Horse Road, a large home suffered major damage, with most of the second floor destroyed. Downed trees were widespread. Damage was rated F2. Another home immediately east of this location lost part of its roof. But farther east, near Interstate 35, several homes were undamaged and no significant damage could be found - except for a lone uprooted tree immediately west of the interstate. Summary of events of the afternoon and evening of May 25, 1997: Severe thunderstorms developed during the afternoon in central Oklahoma and spread into southern Oklahoma during the late afternoon and evening. In all, thirteen tornadoes were confirmed, including an F2 tornado that tracked for 6 miles through McClain County southwest of Purcell. Some minor injuries were reported with one of the tornadoes, but no fatalities or serious injuries occurred. Reports of 3-inch hail, severe straight-line winds, and lightning damage were also received. One particularly strong supercell storm tracked across central Oklahoma, reaching its maximum strength and producing 3 tornadoes and extensive straight-line wind damage over Grady and McClain Counties. What follows here is an excerpt from a damage survey conducted by a National Weather Service meteorologist on May 26th, the day after the storm. "A large severe thunderstorm moved through northern and central Grady County into central and southern McClain County during the late afternoon on Sunday, 25 May 1997. Several reports were received immediately after the storm indicating significant wind damage, especially in southern McClain County southwest of Purcell. There also were numerous confirmed tornado sightings by storm spotters, chasers, local emergency management officials, and local residents. Findings indicate that 3 tornadoes occurred in this area. Most of the damage, and all of the significant structural damage, resulted from the first two tornadoes. Widespread tree damage in some areas, especially in McClain County, was attributed to straight-line winds. The first tornado, rated F1, began 3 miles northeast of Tabler at 15:14 CST and tracked just south of due east for about 2.5 miles before dissipating 2.5 miles SSW of Middleberg at 15:24 CST. Structural damage was confined to a dairy farm near the beginning of the track; otherwise, this tornado remained over mostly open country. The second and more significant tornado, rated F2, began 5 miles east of Criner, or 7 miles WSW of downtown Purcell, in southern McClain County. The beginning time of this tornado is less certain but is believed to be near or just after 16:00 CST. This tornado also tracked just south of due east for 6 miles, ending about 4 miles NW of Wayne or 4 miles S of downtown Purcell at around 16:24 CST. Numerous power lines were downed, prompting the temporary closing of both Highways 24 and 74 for a time Sunday evening. At least 18 dwellings, including mobile homes and permanent dwellings, were destroyed or suffered major damage. This probably was a multiple-vortex tornado, at least in its latter stages, based on eyewitness reports. A third small tornado, rated F0, formed around 16:32 CST and lasted about one or two minutes. It damaged an outbuilding and a few trees 2 miles NNE of Wayne in Southern McClain County, about 4 miles east of where the second tornado ended. No one was killed or seriously injured by any of the tornadoes, but several minor injuries were reported. " The remaining 10 tornadoes were associated with other severe thunderstorms, mainly across central and southern Oklahoma. The strongest of these occurred south of Duncan in Stephens County at 17:36 CST. Spotter and damage reports rated this as an F1 tornado. The remaining 9 tornadoes were all rated F0 and resulted in little or no damage. In chronological order, these tornadoes occurred on the Caddo Comanche County line between Cyril and Fletcher (16:27CST), south of Maysville in Garvin County (17:28 CST), east of Joy in Murray County (18:07 CST), south of Stratford in Garvin County (18:13 CST), east of Roff in Pontotoc County (18:53 CST), northeast of Mill Creek in Johnston County (19:20 CST), west-northwest of Madill in Marshall County, (19:43 CST), north of Tupelo in Coal County (19:48 CST), and northwest of Newkirk in Kay County (21:10 CST). Severe straight-line winds were estimated at up to 80 mph (southwest of Fittstown in Pontotoc County). Wind damage from thunderstorm winds occurred north of Tabler in Grady County, southwest of Purcell in McClain County, in Wynnewood in Garvin County, west of Hardy in Kay County, and west of Antlers in Pushmataha County. Hail up to 3 inches in diameter fell south of Stratford in Garvin County, and lightning damage was reported south of Duncan in Stephens County. See preceding individual Storm Data entries for further details and additional reports. | |||||||||||
41.2 | 1990-03-13 | 3 | 34°17'N / 97°44'W | 34°23'N / 97°35'W | 15.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Stephens |
41.5 | 1964-04-03 | 3 | 33°59'N / 96°37'W | 34°05'N / 96°27'W | 11.80 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Bryan |
41.5 | 1959-03-31 | 3 | 33°53'N / 96°48'W | 34°01'N / 96°38'W | 13.20 Miles | 600 Yards | 0 | 10 | 250K | 0 | Marshall |
41.7 | 1970-10-05 | 2 | 35°04'N / 97°17'W | 35°06'N / 97°09'W | 8.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 1 | 25K | 0 | Cleveland |
42.0 | 1964-04-03 | 3 | 33°57'N / 96°41'W | 33°59'N / 96°37'W | 4.90 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Marshall |
42.2 | 1970-10-05 | 2 | 35°06'N / 97°09'W | 35°09'N / 96°52'W | 16.40 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
42.3 | 1971-03-12 | 3 | 33°58'N / 96°53'W | 33°54'N / 96°35'W | 17.80 Miles | 250 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Marshall |
42.3 | 1961-02-17 | 3 | 34°56'N / 96°46'W | 35°10'N / 96°27'W | 25.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 7 | 2.5M | 0 | Seminole |
42.5 | 1951-06-06 | 2 | 34°42'N / 97°42'W | 34°44'N / 97°39'W | 3.80 Miles | 450 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Grady |
42.7 | 1975-02-22 | 2 | 34°50'N / 97°37'W | 34°52'N / 97°35'W | 3.30 Miles | 60 Yards | 0 | 14 | 2.5M | 0 | Garvin |
43.5 | 1977-03-02 | 3 | 34°29'N / 97°46'W | 34°30'N / 97°42'W | 4.30 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 1 | 250K | 0 | Stephens |
43.8 | 1950-04-28 | 2 | 34°33'N / 96°12'W | 0.80 Mile | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Coal | |
44.1 | 1957-01-22 | 2 | 35°04'N / 96°52'W | 35°09'N / 96°30'W | 21.50 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
44.4 | 1981-05-13 | 2 | 34°29'N / 96°13'W | 34°26'N / 96°10'W | 4.50 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Coal |
44.5 | 1959-05-09 | 2 | 34°51'N / 96°18'W | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Hughes | |||
44.6 | 1990-03-13 | 2 | 35°03'N / 97°22'W | 35°06'N / 97°21'W | 3.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Cleveland |
44.7 | 2003-05-08 | 2 | 34°10'N / 97°40'W | 34°09'N / 97°35'W | 6.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 70K | 0 | Jefferson |
Brief Description: This nighttime tornado is the first of three Oklahoma tornadoes produced by a large supercell that moved across south central Oklahoma. The tornado moved east-southeast for six miles before dissipating. Several homes lost all or part of their roofs with several other homes receiving shingle damage. Four barns were damaged or destroyed. One pole barn had the poles, that were buried three feet deep, pulled out of the ground. A cinder block building also collapsed. Many trees and power lines were downed or damaged by the tornado. Two of the trees were over 100 years old. Three horses were also injured by the tornado. This was the first of three tornadic events in two days for Oklahoma. The other two events occurred on the afternoon of May 8 and on May 9, 2003 (see appropriate storm data). The five tornadoes that occurred in south central Oklahoma all happened after midnight with the strongest tornadoes producing F2 damage. One large supercell produced the three strongest tornadoes of the night. | |||||||||||
44.8 | 1963-05-26 | 2 | 35°09'N / 96°49'W | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Pottawatomie | |||
44.8 | 1981-05-23 | 3 | 34°05'N / 96°30'W | 33°59'N / 96°23'W | 9.70 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Bryan |
44.9 | 1990-03-13 | 2 | 34°58'N / 97°36'W | 35°03'N / 97°22'W | 15.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Mcclain |
45.0 | 1953-04-14 | 2 | 34°22'N / 96°12'W | 0.30 Mile | 23 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Atoka | |
45.3 | 2009-02-10 | 2 | 33°57'N / 97°33'W | 34°04'N / 97°24'W | 12.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0K | Love |
Brief Description: EVENT NARRATIVE: The thunderstorm that produced this tornado began near Breckenridge and Graham, TX. The storm moved northeast. A long-track tornado developed over far southeast Jefferson County, near the Red River. The tornado continued northeast into Love County crossing through rural farmland north of Courtney, Rubottom and Oswalt. Sporadic structural damage was noted in both Jefferson and Love counties, with tree damage also seen. The tornado then crossed into Carter County, where it did its most significant damage in and around the Lone Grove area. The tornado continued northeast, with major damage reported in the Majestic Hills addition and crossing Interstate-35 about a mile and a half north of the Prairie Valley Road exit. At least eight homes and a small private school were destroyed in the Majestic Hills neighborhood. It moved through rural areas of Northeast Carter County to the east of Springer. Approximately 46 people were injured, with 14 seriously injured. Eight people died in the Lone Grove area. At least 114 homes were damaged or destroyed, with at least 3500 losing power in and around Carter county. Debris from this tornado was carried as far away as Sulphur. Monetary damages were estimated. EPISODE NARRATIVE: Thunderstorms developed early in the afternoon, from near the Lawton area, northeast toward the Oklahoma metro area. Thunderstorms became severe relatively quickly as they moved through Caddo and Grady counties, and began to show signs of rotation as they moved toward western Oklahoma City. One supercell thunderstorm spawned several tornadoes as it moved through western and northern Oklahoma. Sporadic damage was reported along its path, some of it significant as it moved through northern Oklahoma county and southern Logan county. Other supercells developed near the same areas of Caddo and Grady counties and moved northeast. Some locations received several rounds of very large hail through the afternoon. Later in the afternoon, a second area of thunderstorms developed over northern Texas. Several supercell thunderstorms developed and moved northeast toward the Red River. One supercell thunderstorm moved northeast over Clay county and northwest Montague county. A tornado developed as it moved into Jefferson county near the Red River. It continued northeast through western Love county and into Carter County. Significant damage was reported in and around the Lone Grove area and over the far north sides of Ardmore. There were eight fatalities in and around Lone Grove. The tornado crossed Interstate 35 and eventually crossed into southern Murray county. Wind damage was reported in Coal and Atoka counties. Minor injuries were reported with the Atoka county thunderstorms. Monetary damages were estimated. | |||||||||||
46.3 | 1960-05-05 | 3 | 35°07'N / 97°03'W | 35°15'N / 96°58'W | 10.40 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Cleveland |
46.3 | 1979-04-10 | 2 | 35°06'N / 97°22'W | 2.00 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Cleveland | |
46.3 | 1982-08-27 | 2 | 35°06'N / 97°22'W | 1.00 Mile | 50 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Mcclain | |
46.3 | 1980-04-02 | 2 | 34°03'N / 96°23'W | 4.00 Miles | 60 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Bryan | |
46.4 | 1990-03-13 | 2 | 34°56'N / 97°39'W | 35°05'N / 97°24'W | 20.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 1 | 2.5M | 0 | Mcclain |
46.7 | 1960-04-28 | 2 | 35°10'N / 97°11'W | 0 | 0 | 0K | 0 | Cleveland | |||
47.0 | 1990-03-13 | 3 | 34°16'N / 97°45'W | 34°17'N / 97°44'W | 1.00 Mile | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Jefferson |
47.2 | 1963-05-26 | 3 | 35°09'N / 96°40'W | 0 | 2 | 3K | 0 | Seminole | |||
47.3 | 1979-04-10 | 2 | 35°06'N / 97°24'W | 1.50 Miles | 40 Yards | 0 | 0 | 25K | 0 | Cleveland | |
47.4 | 1991-03-21 | 2 | 34°01'N / 96°24'W | 34°04'N / 96°20'W | 5.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Bryan |
47.6 | 2001-04-11 | 2 | 34°30'N / 96°10'W | 34°36'N / 96°06'W | 8.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 1 | 1 | 75K | 0 | Coal |
Brief Description: This tornado formed 4 miles southeast of Coalgate and tracked northeastward for 8 miles before crossing into northwest Atoka County at 0434 CST (See following entry for information about the Atoka County segment). The tornado then continued for another 5 miles before dissipating at 0440 CST. In Coal County, 1 fatalilty and injuries to another person occurred when a mobile home was thrown approximately 200 yards and disintegrated 4 miles east of Coalgate. In addition, a well-constructed frame home suffered severe roof damage and exterior wall damage in extreme eastern Coal County. M41MH Six tornadoes across southern Oklahoma and one tornado across western north Texas developed during the overnight hours of the 11th. The most notable tornado formed across Coal County in Oklahoma and resulted in one fatality and one injury as it destroyed a mobile home. In addition to damage produced by severe thunderstorms, sustained winds of 40 to 50 mph with gusts as high as 73 mph developed just ahead of the most frequent period of severe weather and persisted for several hours. In Tillman County, at 2330 CST on the 10th, a barn roof was damaged 3 miles east of Frederick. A barn roof was blown off, and a fence was downed 4 miles east of Frederick, and a house roof sustained minor damage 4 miles north of Frederick. Trees and power lines were downed in Ponca City in Kay County, while in Garfield County, minor but widespread damage, was sustained to trees, power poles, and numerous other structures. | |||||||||||
47.6 | 1969-10-10 | 2 | 35°04'N / 96°28'W | 0.80 Mile | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Hughes | |
48.0 | 1953-03-13 | 2 | 35°04'N / 97°29'W | 2.00 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 2 | 250K | 0 | Mcclain | |
48.0 | 2010-05-10 | 2 | 35°07'N / 97°16'W | 35°15'N / 97°08'W | 12.00 Miles | 440 Yards | 0 | 3 | 0K | 0K | Cleveland |
Brief Description: EVENT NARRATIVE: Cleveland County portion of tornado #J3. The tornado developed west of SE 120th Avenue between Maguire Road and Cemetary Road. The tornado moved through a mobile home park northeast of SE 120th Avenue and Maguire Road causing significant damage to a number of the mobile homes and injuring 2 people. The tornado continue to cause tree damage as it moved northeast, then heavily damaged the Country Boy IGA grocery store and service station on State Highway 9 to the east of Lake Thunderbird. The tornado began to move east-northeast and moved into Pottawatomie County along State Highway 9 about one minute before tornado #J1 also crossed into Pottawatomie County at about the same location. EPISODE NARRATIVE: A significant outbreak of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes affected a large part of northern, central, and southern Oklahoma. Tornadoes were most numerous across central and southern Oklahoma, with significant damage occurring over many areas. Severe thunderstorms erupted by mid afternoon across northern and western Oklahoma. Given the potent combination of ingredients in place, storms began to produce tornadoes quickly after initiation. Storm motions of 50 to 60 mph were common. During the mid afternoon hours, severe weather was confined to northern Oklahoma. It was there a long track supercell storm produced tornadoes near the Kansas border - including one rated EF3 - from near Wakita to north of Braman. The capping inversion that had delayed thunderstorm development into central Oklahoma weakened, allowing for explosive supercell development along the dry line along and west of the Interstate 35 corridor. Rapid development and intensification was common with the late afternoon storms, with storms becoming tornadic within a very short time after initiation. This round of storms would directly impact a large part of the Oklahoma City metro area at rush hour, and posed a significant threat to the area. The first tornado in this area occurred in Canadian County. During the next several hours, tornadoes were clustered around the metro area, and at times there were multiple significant damaging tornadoes occurring simultaneously. Several of the tornadoes had long tracks. Damage from the tornadoes was substantial, with numerous structures, vehicles, trees and power poles/lines significantly damaged or destroyed. One of the more intense tornadoes moved across Lake Thunderbird east of Norman destroying numerous boats. More storms developed across southwest and south central Oklahoma, and also quickly became tornadic. By 9 pm, 35 tornadoes had been reported. While the loss of three lives was tragic, the casualties could have been much higher given the storm's fast motions, their intensity, the time of day and the areas impacted. While exact monetary damage figures were not available, it is estimated that losses were in excess of $595 million. At least 450 sustained injuries, most of them minor. Unfortunately three people lost their lives. Note: The large number of injuries and tornadoes made it difficult to associate injuries with specific tornadoes. Injury numbers were included when we had confidence in the numbers. Note: The complex nature of storm evolutions and interactions made the job of classifying tornadoes difficult. This represents our best scientific assessment based on ground and aerial surveys, data from multiple radars, photographic and video evidence and anecdotal information. | |||||||||||
48.5 | 1954-09-20 | 2 | 34°00'N / 96°23'W | 34°03'N / 96°20'W | 4.50 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 1 | 3K | 0 | Bryan |
48.6 | 1992-05-11 | 2 | 34°40'N / 96°11'W | 34°43'N / 96°06'W | 4.00 Miles | 300 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Coal |
48.7 | 1953-03-13 | 3 | 34°53'N / 97°42'W | 1.00 Mile | 100 Yards | 1 | 8 | 250K | 0 | Grady | |
48.8 | 1990-03-13 | 2 | 34°53'N / 97°43'W | 34°56'N / 97°39'W | 4.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Grady |
48.8 | 1990-03-13 | 2 | 35°05'N / 97°24'W | 35°12'N / 97°20'W | 4.00 Miles | 200 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Cleveland |
48.9 | 1953-03-13 | 2 | 35°11'N / 97°15'W | 1.30 Miles | 250 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Cleveland | |
49.0 | 1957-04-02 | 4 | 33°56'N / 96°26'W | 34°02'N / 96°22'W | 7.90 Miles | 200 Yards | 3 | 3 | 250K | 0 | Bryan |
49.0 | 1976-04-19 | 2 | 33°52'N / 97°26'W | 33°56'N / 97°22'W | 6.10 Miles | 100 Yards | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Love |
49.2 | 1982-11-22 | 2 | 34°20'N / 96°09'W | 34°24'N / 96°06'W | 5.00 Miles | 150 Yards | 0 | 0 | 2.5M | 0 | Atoka |
49.7 | 1982-03-15 | 2 | 35°05'N / 96°26'W | 0 | 0 | 250K | 0 | Hughes | |||
49.7 | 1991-03-21 | 2 | 34°18'N / 96°17'W | 34°19'N / 95°59'W | 19.00 Miles | 400 Yards | 0 | 6 | 250K | 0 | Atoka |
49.9 | 1960-05-04 | 2 | 35°08'N / 97°24'W | 35°11'N / 97°20'W | 5.20 Miles | 50 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Cleveland |
49.9 | 1963-05-26 | 2 | 35°14'N / 96°53'W | 2.50 Miles | 33 Yards | 0 | 0 | 3K | 0 | Pottawatomie |
* The information on this page is based on the global volcano database, the U.S. earthquake database of 1638-1985, and the U.S. Tornado and Weather Extremes database of 1950-2010.