Tornado Rating:: Confirmed as a high-end EF1 tornado by the National Weather Service (NWS) Tulsa, with peak winds estimated between 100-110 mph.
Damage Assessment:: The Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA) estimates 287 homes or businesses were impacted. This includes 15 structures with major damage, 52 with minor damage, and 220 affected. Fortunately, no structures were reported as completely destroyed.
Path:: The tornado carved a path approximately 10 miles long, stretching from southwest Owasso near 96th and Garnett northeast towards 106th and Highway 169.
Notable Impacts:: Damage included downed power lines, trees, fences, damaged vehicles, and impacts to buildings, including significant roof and vehicle damage at the local Whirlpool plant, forcing its temporary closure.
Why this matters:: This event underscores the destructive power of tornadoes, even those not at the highest end of the scale, highlighting the critical importance of timely warnings, storm preparedness, and robust community support systems in disaster recovery.
The NWS Tulsa survey team confirmed the tornado's EF1 rating after assessing the damage patterns in Owasso. The estimated wind speeds of 100-110 mph place it at the upper end of the EF1 category. TAEMA's initial assessment provided a clearer picture of the structural impact, detailing the extent of damage across nearly 300 properties.
Residents described terrifying moments as the storm hit, with one recalling it sounding "like a jet and a train collided." Immediately following the storm, the community demonstrated resilience, with neighbors helping clear debris and check on each other. The City of Owasso declared a state of emergency to streamline cleanup efforts.
Several organizations stepped up to offer free assistance to affected residents, including:
Tree Damage/Assessment: Oklahoma Baptist Disaster Relief (405-516-4822 or okdisasterhelp.org)
Debris Cleanup/Haul-off: Cattle Creek Removal (918-210-8411), Junk Happens LLC (918-409-0828)
Tarping: Keeley Properties (918-902-0156)
Pet Boarding: SAHO (918-205-4295), Family Animal Medicine (918-609-6111)
Officials also issued warnings about potential unlicensed contractors, advising residents to verify credentials through the State of Oklahoma Construction Industries Board website (verifyroofing.cib.ok.gov).
This tornado occurred amid forecasts for a larger severe weather outbreak across the central United States, emphasizing the ongoing risks during storm season.
What was the official rating of the tornado that hit Owasso?
The National Weather Service rated it a high-end EF1 tornado, with estimated winds of 100-110 mph.
How many homes and businesses were damaged?
Approximately 287 structures were impacted, according to the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency, with damage ranging from affected to major.
What kind of help is available for residents affected by the tornado?
Free services including tree cleanup, debris removal, roof tarping, and pet boarding are being offered by various local organizations and businesses. Contact information is listed in the article.
How can residents verify roofing contractors?
Residents should check if contractors are registered with the State of Oklahoma Construction Industries Board via verifyroofing.cib.ok.gov before hiring.
Residents and business owners along the tornado's 10-mile path in Owasso experienced direct impacts, ranging from minor damage to significant structural issues and temporary displacement. Those without adequate insurance or emergency savings may face greater recovery challenges.
Heed Warnings: Pay close attention to weather alerts from reliable sources like the NWS and local news apps (e.g., News On 6 Weather App).
Have a Plan: Know where to take shelter (basement, interior room, storm shelter) well before a storm hits.
Register Shelters: If you have a storm shelter, consider registering it with local emergency management; this can aid first responders.
Verify Contractors: After a storm, be wary of unsolicited offers for repairs. Always verify contractor licenses and insurance.
Even EF1 tornadoes can cause widespread and significant damage.
Community support and volunteer organizations are vital in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.
Preparedness, including heeding warnings and having a safety plan, is crucial.
The quick response and community spirit in Owasso are commendable. How can communities better prepare for sudden severe weather events like tornadoes? Let us know your thoughts!
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Source 1: EF1 tornado hit Owasso area according to NWS Tulsa (KTUL)
Source 2: Owasso tornado: Whirlpool plant hit, homes, cars destroyed (Hindustan Times - Note: Specific article URL not provided in snippet)
Source 3: EF1 tornado causes significant damage in Owasso with 10-mile path (News On 6 - Note: Specific article URL not provided in snippet)
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