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Is your home prepared for the severe weather hitting Tulsa this weekend? With the storm season in full swing, Tulsans are reminded to stay vigilant as severe weather, including heavy rain and lightning, is forecasted. Authorities, including the Tulsa Area Emergency Management Agency (TAEMA), are urging residents to remain aware and take precautions as the holiday weekend approaches.
Last night's storm brought ferocious winds exceeding 70 miles per hour, causing significant damage across the area. Reports indicate that trees have fallen onto homes, electrical grids have been compromised, and thousands are currently without power. "We had a pretty good storm roll through late last night, early this morning," mentioned a spokesperson from a local power company, highlighting the extensive impact of the storm on the community.
One immediate concern is the potential for more storms in the following days, which could lead to further challenges including flooding and hazardous driving conditions. Joseph Kralicek, Executive Director of TAEMA, emphasized the dangers of lightning, stating, "Lightning is a killer nationwide." The agency advises local residents to stay informed and prepared for the unexpected—particularly during this unpredictable Oklahoma weather.
Local roofing expert Jonathan Rinn reported working to remove a fallen tree from a home, emphasizing the importance of addressing immediate damage before it causes further issues. He reflected on previous storms that have impacted homes in Tulsa, noting how unpredictable the weather can be. "I mean, it's unpredictable," he shared. This sentiment resonates with many local residents as they brace for the storms ahead.
Another pressing issue is the threat of street flooding, which has already led to multiple traffic accidents. "Street flooding is a major concern. We want to urge everybody, if they see water across the roadway, to turn around and not drown," Kralicek advised. This simple yet crucial message is paramount as heavy rains could create dangerous conditions.
Currently, over 30,000 residents are without power due to storm-related outages, with restoration efforts being served in real-time. Utility crews are working diligently to restore power to affected areas, and safety is their priority. Residents can keep track of these outages and report any issues via the available utility outage maps provided by local service companies.
As we move through this period of severe weather in Tulsa, residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Stay updated on local weather alerts through your preferred sources.
- Keep an emergency kit ready, including flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water.
- Secure outdoor items that may be blown away by strong winds.
- Avoid unnecessary travel during severe storms.
- Always heed warnings from local officials regarding road safety and evacuations where necessary.
In these critical times, collective vigilance is key. With unpredictable weather patterns becoming more common, understanding how to react when severe weather strikes is crucial for safety. Tulsans are encouraged to look out for one another; stay safe, and prepare for the weather ahead.
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