Severe Storms Cause Flooding and Drownings in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY — Heavy rains and severe thunderstorms have prompted a heightened risk of flash flooding across the south-central U.S., particularly affecting Oklahoma and northern Texas. Tragically, two individuals drowned in Oklahoma on Wednesday as their vehicles were swept away by rising waters, according to local authorities.
Slow-moving thunderstorms inundated roads, leading to significant flooding in Pottawatomie and Lincoln counties. Sheriff Freeland Wood reported that one victim was caught while attempting to save another stranded motorist, resulting in the deputy receiving hospital treatment before being released. Emergency responders have rescued numerous individuals trapped in floodwaters, while some residents in Lexington were evacuated as waters surged.
Oklahoma City recorded an unprecedented 11.94 inches of rainfall on Wednesday, surpassing the prior record for April set in 1947, with state climatologist Gary McManus indicating that Oklahoma could break its statewide average rainfall record for the month. By Wednesday evening, nearly three dozen roadways were closed, and shelters were established in Comanche County.
The intense storms also disrupted air travel, grounding departures at Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Hundreds of flights faced cancellations or delays due to the severe weather conditions, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration and FlightAware.
Residents across the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant as additional severe storms are forecasted through early Thursday, with the National Weather Service emphasizing the ongoing risk of flash flooding.
For updates and safety information, residents are encouraged to follow local news sources and adhere to emergency warnings.
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