Tulsa Under Severe Weather Watch: Officials Issue Weekend Vigilance Plea

James

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Post on May 25, 2025

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Tulsa Under Severe Weather Watch: Officials Issue Urgent Weekend Vigilance Plea

Tulsa, Oklahoma – A severe weather watch has been issued for Tulsa and surrounding areas, prompting urgent pleas from city officials for residents to remain vigilant throughout the weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a high probability of damaging winds, large hail, and the potential for tornadoes. This comes after a week of unsettled weather patterns across the state, leaving many Oklahomans on edge.

The impending storm system is expected to arrive late Friday evening and continue into Saturday. Officials are urging residents to prepare now, emphasizing the importance of having a safety plan in place and staying informed about the evolving situation.

What to Expect and How to Prepare:

The NWS has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, indicating conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms to develop. This is not a warning, but a heads-up to prepare. The potential threats include:

• Damaging Winds: Gusts exceeding 70 mph are possible, capable of causing significant damage to property and infrastructure. Secure loose objects around your home and consider bringing outdoor furniture inside.
• Large Hail: Hailstones the size of golf balls or larger are anticipated, posing a risk to vehicles, windows, and crops.
• Tornadoes: While not guaranteed, the possibility of tornadoes cannot be ruled out. Knowing your local tornado shelter locations is crucial. [Link to Tulsa Emergency Management website for shelter locations]
• Heavy Rainfall: Significant rainfall could lead to localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Be aware of potential road closures and avoid driving through flooded areas.

Official Recommendations and Safety Measures:

The Tulsa Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has issued the following recommendations:

• Develop a Family Communication Plan: Ensure everyone in your family knows where to meet in case of separation.
• Charge Electronic Devices: Having a charged phone is essential for staying updated on weather alerts.
• Gather Emergency Supplies: This includes water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit. [Link to a relevant resource on emergency preparedness kits]
• Monitor Weather Reports: Stay informed by monitoring local news channels, the National Weather Service website ([Link to NWS website]), and the Tulsa OEM's social media accounts.
• Stay Indoors During Severe Weather: Seek shelter immediately if a warning is issued. The safest place is a basement or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows.

Beyond the Immediate Threat:

This severe weather event highlights the importance of year-round preparedness. Taking proactive steps to mitigate risks can significantly reduce the impact of future severe weather events. Consider investing in storm shutters or reinforcing your home's structure to better withstand high winds.

Stay informed and stay safe. The safety of Tulsa residents is the top priority. This is a developing situation, and further updates will be provided as they become available. Follow official channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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