The city of Tulsa and local power companies are bracing for additional severe weather following a storm that swept through last night, bringing wind gusts exceeding 70 miles per hour. Joseph Kralicek, Executive Director of the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA), has urged residents to remain vigilant throughout the holiday as multiple days of storms, including heavy rain and lightning, are expected.
Officials report that the intense storm caused significant damage to the electrical grid, leading to downed power lines and broken equipment. “We had a pretty good storm roll through late last night, early this morning,” stated Matt Rahn, a spokesperson for PSO. A tree fell on a house in Tulsa during the storm, causing a portion of the roof to collapse, but fortunately, all residents in the home are safe.
Jonathan Rinn of Sooner Recon Roofing is currently working to clear the tree from the damaged home. He emphasized the importance of addressing the issue quickly to prevent further internal damage. Rinn noted that they had previously installed the roof two years ago after another severe storm incident.
As the city prepares for more rain, Kralicek’s primary concern is the potential for severe flooding. Multiple traffic accidents have already been reported due to the hazardous conditions caused by the rain and wind. He advised drivers to be cautious and avoid submerged roadways, reiterating the importance of the mantra, “turn around, don’t drown.”
As Tulsa faces these challenges, the community’s resilience and preparedness remain crucial. With the proper precautions and safety measures, residents can navigate these tumultuous weather events with greater security. A continued focus on weather awareness will hopefully keep everyone safe and minimize damage during this stormy season.