At least six tornadoes barreled through northern Oklahoma Thursday night, part of a line of severe thunderstorms that spread from Kansas into Iowa and produced baseball‑sized hail, heavy rain and winds over 100 mph. Two twisters swirled near the town of Bremen, moving side by side before merging while a violent tornado traveled through the city of Enid.
The Enid tornado was later classified as an EF4. Meteorologists estimated peak winds of about 166 mph and said the storm cut roughly a 10‑mile path through the area, remaining on the ground for about 40 minutes. The storm damaged nearby Vance Air Force Base and left dozens of homes heavily damaged or completely gone. Despite the destruction, authorities reported no fatalities and only minor injuries.
Locals described chaotic escapes and scenes of devastation. Tyler Vanover said he and his wife jumped in their car and drove away from the approaching twister to reach safety. Raeann Hunt carried her dogs and cat into an underground shelter with family and neighbors as the tornado hit; when they emerged they found a large shop and other structures leveled.
Residents noted that many houses in the area lack basements, making the number of people who survived without serious injury remarkable. Emergency crews and neighbors have been helping with rescues and recovery, and communities are bracing for the potential of more severe weather expected the following day.