ENID, Okla. (AP) — A powerful tornado in Oklahoma ripped roofs off buildings and reduced others to rubble, knocked down power poles, and sent emergency crews rushing into a rural community near Vance Air Force Base, officials reported.
The tornado struck parts of Enid, a city of about 50,000 residents, as confirmed by the National Weather Service. Video footage captured a rotating column of air wreaking havoc as homes were devastated.
Fortunately, there were no immediate fatalities—just minor injuries—according to the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities are going door-to-door in some neighborhoods to ensure residents are safe.
Enid Mayor David Mason noted that some residents were trapped in their homes due to debris, needing rescues.
Gray Ridge, a neighborhood on the city's south side, encountered some of the worst damage. Video images reveal piles of rubble where houses used to stand.
Amy Kuntz, navigating the storm, shared a tense moment with her daughter as she advised her to take cover. “She said, ‘I don’t know what to do,’ and moments later, she told me, ‘Mom, the roof's gone,’” Kuntz recounted.
Power outages stretched to Vance Air Force Base about 80 miles north of Oklahoma City, leading to its closure for restoration efforts. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has called for prayers for the affected communities.
The stormy weather also hit neighboring states, with Kearney in Missouri reporting downed trees and debris, although without injuries.
