Tornado outbreak of May 11-12, 2030: Difference between revisions
| (27 intermediate revisions by the same user not shown) | |||
| Line 8: | Line 8: | ||
|locationinfo1=[[Wikipedia:Moore, Oklahoma|Moore, Oklahoma]] | |locationinfo1=[[Wikipedia:Moore, Oklahoma|Moore, Oklahoma]] | ||
|locationinfo2=on May 11 | |locationinfo2=on May 11 | ||
|total fatalities= | |total fatalities=56 | ||
|total injuries= | |total injuries=416 | ||
|total damage=~$3. | |total damage=~$3.7 billion | ||
|moneyyear=2025 | |moneyyear=2025 | ||
|areas affected=Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri | |areas affected=Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri | ||
|power outages=Unknown | |power outages=Unknown | ||
|tornado year=[[Tornadoes of 2030]] | |||
}} | }} | ||
The '''Tornado outbreak of May 11–12, 2030''', was a destructive and deadly tornado outbreak that affected portions of the Southern Plains and Lower Midwest, primarily impacting Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. Over a span of 14 hours and 12 minutes, 19 tornadoes touched down across three states, including one rated EF5 on the [[Enhanced Fujita scale]]. The most catastrophic tornado of the outbreak occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, where an [[2030 Moore tornado|EF5 wedge tornado]] caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least | The '''Tornado outbreak of May 11–12, 2030''', was a destructive and deadly tornado outbreak that affected portions of the Southern Plains and Lower Midwest, primarily impacting Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. Over a span of 14 hours and 12 minutes, 19 tornadoes touched down across three states, including one rated EF5 on the [[Enhanced Fujita scale]]. The most catastrophic tornado of the outbreak occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, where an [[2030 Moore tornado|EF5 wedge tornado]] caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least 56 fatalities and over 416 injuries. | ||
The outbreak unfolded in response to a powerful springtime low-pressure system interacting with a moist and unstable air mass over the central United States. The Storm Prediction Center issued a Moderate Risk for severe weather on May 11, citing a heightened potential for long-track, violent tornadoes. Tornadic supercells developed rapidly during the afternoon hours, particularly near the dryline–warm front triple point in central Oklahoma. While most tornadoes were weak to moderate in intensity, two were rated violent—[[2030 El Reno tornado|an EF4]] in El Reno and the aforementioned EF5 in Moore. | The outbreak unfolded in response to a powerful springtime low-pressure system interacting with a moist and unstable air mass over the central United States. The Storm Prediction Center issued a Moderate Risk for severe weather on May 11, citing a heightened potential for long-track, violent tornadoes. Tornadic supercells developed rapidly during the afternoon hours, particularly near the dryline–warm front triple point in central Oklahoma. While most tornadoes were weak to moderate in intensity, two were rated violent—[[2030 El Reno tornado|an EF4]] in El Reno and the aforementioned EF5 in Moore. | ||
In total, the outbreak caused approximately $3. | In total, the outbreak caused approximately $3.7 billion in damage (2030 USD), making it one of the costliest May outbreaks in recent U.S. history. Emergency declarations were issued in all three affected states, and widespread power outages, infrastructure failure, and search-and-rescue operations continued for days. The Moore tornado alone accounted for the vast majority of casualties and financial loss. The event reaffirmed the Southern Plains’ status as one of the most tornado-prone regions in the world and reignited national discussions about tornado resilience, shelter access, and building codes. | ||
== Meteorological synopsis == | == Meteorological synopsis == | ||
| Line 30: | Line 31: | ||
==Confirmed tornadoes== | ==Confirmed tornadoes== | ||
{{See also|List of tornadoes in the outbreak of May 11–12, 2030}} | |||
{{Tornado Chart | {{Tornado Chart | ||
|Total= 19 | |Total= 19 | ||
| Line 51: | Line 53: | ||
|duration=41 minutes | |duration=41 minutes | ||
|highest winds=120 | |highest winds=120 | ||
|fatalities= | |fatalities=3 | ||
|injuries= | |injuries=19 | ||
}} | }} | ||
On the morning of May 11, 2030, a damaging EF2 tornado impacted the city of Stillwater, Oklahoma, causing moderate to locally significant damage across residential and commercial areas. The tornado first touched down at 11:22 a.m. CDT in rural Payne County to the southwest of the city and tracked northeast for 41 minutes, eventually lifting at 12:03 p.m. CDT after passing through the northeast side of Stillwater. The tornado followed a diagonal path that cut across the southern portion of the city, narrowly missing the central business district but impacting several subdivisions and commercial corridors. With maximum estimated winds of 120 mph (190 km/h), the tornado rolled mobile homes off their foundations, peeled roofs from houses, and downed numerous trees and power poles. | |||
Several neighborhoods in the southwest and southeast parts of the city sustained moderate structural damage, including to fences, garages, and outbuildings. At least '''four mobile homes''' were overturned in a trailer park west of U.S. Highway 177, resulting in '''three fatalities''', including one elderly resident who was found in a severely damaged unit. Emergency officials reported at least '''19 injuries''', the majority of which occurred due to flying debris and broken glass. A number of apartment complexes in the southern residential zones had windows blown out and roof sections removed. Despite occurring in the late morning hours, many Oklahoma State University students were off campus due to weekend scheduling, preventing greater injuries downtown. Portions of Stillwater Regional Airport sustained minor damage, including to hangars and parked aircraft. | |||
Power outages affected several thousand residents, and Stillwater Medical Center treated dozens of storm-related injuries within hours of the tornado’s passage. Debris blocked several major roadways including 6th Avenue and Perkins Road, complicating emergency response efforts. Emergency shelters were opened at local schools and churches, and damage assessments revealed dozens of homes and businesses suffered EF1 to low-end EF2 damage. While not among the strongest tornadoes of the outbreak, the Stillwater event was notable for its path through a densely populated area and its fatalities — the most deadly tornado in north-central Oklahoma that day. City officials praised the effectiveness of early warnings but acknowledged the short lead time and rapid tornado formation as contributing factors in the loss of life. | |||
{{Clear}} | |||
===Middleberg-Blanchard, Oklahoma=== | |||
{{Infobox tornado Aftermath | |||
|PAGENAME=Middleberg-Blanchard, Oklahoma | |||
|image location=Blanchard 2030 Damage.webp | |||
|image caption=A well-built structure destroyed at high-end EF2 intensity in Blanchard. | |||
|formed=May 11, 2030, 11:52 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | |||
|dissipated=May 11, 2030, 12:41 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | |||
|duration=49 minutes | |||
|highest winds=135 | |||
|fatalities=2 | |||
|injuries=13 | |||
}} | |||
The Middleberg–Blanchard tornado was a significant EF2 tornado that struck portions of Grady and McClain counties in central Oklahoma on May 11, 2030, as part of a larger tornado outbreak across the Southern Plains. The tornado first touched down at approximately 11:52 a.m. CDT southwest of Middleberg, quickly strengthening as it tracked northeast toward the town of Blanchard. Over the next 49 minutes, the tornado traveled through mostly rural and semi-suburban terrain, reaching peak estimated winds of 135 mph (217 km/h). In Middleberg, the tornado uprooted large trees, overturned farm equipment, and destroyed barns and metal sheds. A number of homes sustained roof loss and window failures, and one outbuilding was swept off its foundation. | |||
As the tornado entered Blanchard city limits, it intensified and produced its most destructive damage. Several residential structures suffered significant roof and wall failures, and one well-built structure—possibly a small business or reinforced home—was completely destroyed, consistent with high-end EF2 damage. Mobile homes were tossed or flipped in at least two trailer parks near Highway 76. Surveillance footage from local businesses captured large debris lofted into the air and swirling across Main Street. In all, approximately 85 homes and buildings were damaged in Blanchard, including a small church that sustained partial roof collapse. Numerous trees were snapped or uprooted, and some cars were displaced from driveways and parking lots. | |||
The tornado resulted in '''2 confirmed fatalities''' and '''13 injuries'''. One fatality occurred when a man in a mobile home was thrown several hundred feet and died at the scene, while the second was a woman struck by debris while seeking shelter in a vehicle. Emergency services responded rapidly but were hindered by blocked roads and localized power outages. Dozens of residents were treated for minor injuries caused by broken glass and falling debris. Several schools in the region had closed early due to the severe weather threat, which likely prevented higher casualty numbers. Overall, the tornado left a swath of moderate to severe damage and underscored the dangers posed even by EF2-rated tornadoes in populated areas. Cleanup and debris removal in Blanchard took over a week, with power fully restored five days after the event. | |||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
| Line 61: | Line 89: | ||
|PAGENAME=Moore, Oklahoma | |PAGENAME=Moore, Oklahoma | ||
|image location=Moore2030Damage.jpg | |image location=Moore2030Damage.jpg | ||
|image caption=A well-built restaurant | |image caption=A well-built restaurant swept off it's foundation at low-end EF5 intensity in Moore. | ||
|formed=May 11, 2030, 1:21 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | |formed=May 11, 2030, 1:21 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | ||
|dissipated=May 11, 2030, 2: | |dissipated=May 11, 2030, 2:07 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | ||
|duration= | |duration=46 minutes | ||
|highest winds=205 | |highest winds=205 | ||
|fatalities= | |fatalities=39 | ||
|injuries=324 | |injuries=324 | ||
}} | }} | ||
| Line 74: | Line 102: | ||
More than 2,000 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed by the tornado. Numerous fatalities occurred in residential areas, particularly near Briarwood Elementary School and the Plaza Towers subdivision. While both schools sustained damage, classes were not in session due to the tornado striking on a Saturday, likely preventing further loss of life. Briarwood Elementary suffered partial roof failure and damage to multiple classrooms, while Plaza Towers Elementary — rebuilt after its 2013 destruction — endured significant roof and facade damage, though its reinforced structure remained standing. The tornado’s EF5 rating was assigned based on the total destruction of a well-engineered, anchor-bolted restaurant in southern Moore, the only damage indicator to exceed EF4 thresholds. Debris from the restaurant was scattered hundreds of yards, and anchoring systems were found ripped or sheared. Vehicles were thrown long distances, and several were wrapped around trees or shredded beyond recognition. | More than 2,000 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed by the tornado. Numerous fatalities occurred in residential areas, particularly near Briarwood Elementary School and the Plaza Towers subdivision. While both schools sustained damage, classes were not in session due to the tornado striking on a Saturday, likely preventing further loss of life. Briarwood Elementary suffered partial roof failure and damage to multiple classrooms, while Plaza Towers Elementary — rebuilt after its 2013 destruction — endured significant roof and facade damage, though its reinforced structure remained standing. The tornado’s EF5 rating was assigned based on the total destruction of a well-engineered, anchor-bolted restaurant in southern Moore, the only damage indicator to exceed EF4 thresholds. Debris from the restaurant was scattered hundreds of yards, and anchoring systems were found ripped or sheared. Vehicles were thrown long distances, and several were wrapped around trees or shredded beyond recognition. | ||
In total, the Moore tornado resulted in at least | In total, the Moore tornado resulted in at least '''39 fatalities''' and over '''324 injuries''', making it the deadliest single tornado of the 2030 outbreak and one of the deadliest in Oklahoma history since 2013. Emergency response teams described the scene in Moore as chaotic, with blocked roads, power outages, and overwhelmed communications infrastructure. The tornado knocked out power to tens of thousands of residents, ruptured gas lines, and temporarily disabled cell towers and 911 systems. Search and rescue efforts were hampered by debris piles that exceeded ten feet in some areas. Recovery of victims took days, with final identification of all deceased individuals not completed until nearly three weeks later. The National Weather Service and emergency managers praised the effectiveness of early warnings and weather radios, though the tornado’s speed and strength left little time for many to seek shelter. Estimated damage from the Moore tornado alone exceeded '''$2.5 billion''', placing it among the costliest tornadoes in U.S. history. The event once again reignited discussion about tornado resilience, especially in Moore, which has now been struck by three EF5 tornadoes in just over three decades. | ||
In the weeks that followed, damage surveys conducted by the National Weather Service and university research teams revealed further evidence of the tornado’s exceptional power. Ground scouring up to 5-6 inches deep was observed in open fields west of Moore, with one area showing exposed bedrock and uprooted tree systems—hallmarks of violent intensity. Drone and satellite imagery confirmed widespread debris dispersion, with lighter debris carried more than 25 miles downwind. The tornado’s slow, grinding progression through residential neighborhoods was cited as a key factor behind the extreme structural losses and high casualty count. Several homes built to enhanced post-2013 codes were obliterated, leading engineers to reevaluate the effectiveness of current building standards under EF5 loads. Additionally, emotional trauma and displacement were widespread among survivors, many of whom had lived through previous Moore tornadoes. Dozens of community fundraisers and mental health support centers were established in the aftermath to aid long-term recovery. The 2030 Moore tornado not only underscored the city's ongoing vulnerability to catastrophic storms but also served as a defining meteorological case study for future risk mitigation and urban tornado planning efforts. | In the weeks that followed, damage surveys conducted by the National Weather Service and university research teams revealed further evidence of the tornado’s exceptional power. Ground scouring up to 5-6 inches deep was observed in open fields west of Moore, with one area showing exposed bedrock and uprooted tree systems—hallmarks of violent intensity. Drone and satellite imagery confirmed widespread debris dispersion, with lighter debris carried more than 25 miles downwind. The tornado’s slow, grinding progression through residential neighborhoods was cited as a key factor behind the extreme structural losses and high casualty count. Several homes built to enhanced post-2013 codes were obliterated, leading engineers to reevaluate the effectiveness of current building standards under EF5 loads. Additionally, emotional trauma and displacement were widespread among survivors, many of whom had lived through previous Moore tornadoes. Dozens of community fundraisers and mental health support centers were established in the aftermath to aid long-term recovery. The 2030 Moore tornado not only underscored the city's ongoing vulnerability to catastrophic storms but also served as a defining meteorological case study for future risk mitigation and urban tornado planning efforts. | ||
| Line 89: | Line 117: | ||
|duration=36 minutes | |duration=36 minutes | ||
|highest winds=140 | |highest winds=140 | ||
|fatalities= | |fatalities=4 | ||
|injuries= | |injuries=22 | ||
}} | }} | ||
A significant tornado struck Ponca City, Oklahoma, during the mid-afternoon hours of May 11, 2030, as part of the broader severe weather outbreak. The tornado formed at 1:32 p.m. CDT just southwest of the city and tracked northeast through the urban core before dissipating at 2:08 p.m. CDT near Lake Ponca. Rated EF3, the tornado produced peak winds estimated at 140 mph (230 km/h) and was on the ground for 36 minutes. Satellite imagery of the damage swath revealed a well-defined and focused corridor of destruction, with the tornado narrowly missing the city’s primary hospital and striking several residential and industrial sectors directly. The path was roughly 0.5 miles wide at peak, with a concentrated zone of intense winds evident from radar velocity scans. The damage track cut through both commercial corridors and quiet neighborhoods, forcing sudden evacuations in the midst of a quiet Saturday afternoon. | |||
The tornado’s most intense damage occurred along South Avenue and 14th Street, where poorly constructed homes were reduced to rubble and several businesses were heavily damaged. Gas stations and convenience stores along major intersections were partially leveled, and multiple low-rise brick buildings in downtown Ponca City lost roofs or suffered wall collapses. Industrial zones in the southwestern part of the city, including tank farms and rail yards, saw structural failures, fence damage, and overturned equipment. At least one large storage tank was dented and displaced from its foundation. Emergency services were dispatched from nearby towns due to downed power lines and inaccessible roads. While much of downtown appeared sparsely populated at the time, mobile homes and rental properties on the southern outskirts sustained widespread damage. Several trees were debarked in narrow corridors, and cars were overturned or wrapped around power poles. Surveillance footage showed the tornado as a large cone with a thick debris cloud, briefly obscuring visibility across the city. | |||
In total, the tornado resulted in '''4 confirmed fatalities''' and '''22 injuries'''. One fatality occurred in a mobile home that was lofted and thrown into a wooded area. The other deaths happened in homes that lacked basements or reinforced shelter. Several of the injured were trapped under collapsed roofs or pinned by debris until rescue crews could reach them. Of the 17 injuries, at least 5 were listed as critical, with most resulting from flying debris or structural collapse. Power outages affected over 7,000 residents, and the local emergency operations center declared a state of emergency by late afternoon. Initial damage assessments indicated that over 150 structures had sustained varying levels of damage, with a majority occurring in southeastern Ponca City. Though the city has seen economic stagnation and a visibly diminished population in recent decades, the tornado served as a harsh reminder that vulnerability remains — even in quieter, seemingly less active communities. Local officials later emphasized the importance of maintaining tornado preparedness regardless of a city’s growth or decline, calling the event “a wake-up call” for the region. | |||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
| Line 114: | Line 148: | ||
El Reno Regional Airport sustained significant damage as the tornado crossed its main runway. Several small aircraft were flipped or destroyed, and jet fuel tanks ignited in a brief flash fire, although no fatalities occurred at the airport. Additional damage was reported at a fire station, water treatment facility, and community center. Citywide water service was disrupted, and dozens of power poles were snapped across the city. Surveillance cameras captured dramatic footage of the tornado as it tore through industrial parks and parking lots, scattering vehicles and debris across open fields. | El Reno Regional Airport sustained significant damage as the tornado crossed its main runway. Several small aircraft were flipped or destroyed, and jet fuel tanks ignited in a brief flash fire, although no fatalities occurred at the airport. Additional damage was reported at a fire station, water treatment facility, and community center. Citywide water service was disrupted, and dozens of power poles were snapped across the city. Surveillance cameras captured dramatic footage of the tornado as it tore through industrial parks and parking lots, scattering vehicles and debris across open fields. | ||
In total, the tornado killed 8 people and injured 38 others, with most casualties occurring in residential areas lacking storm shelters. Two individuals were killed in separate vehicle incidents along I-40, while another died after a commercial roof collapse. Of the injured, at least 12 were listed in critical condition during the first 24 hours. Search-and-rescue teams spent two days combing debris for survivors and victims. Emergency response in El Reno was bolstered by state aid and National Guard deployments, but debris and blocked roads hindered immediate access to some neighborhoods. The tornado caused extensive damage to both public infrastructure and private property, with total losses estimated in the | In total, the tornado '''killed 8 people''' and '''injured 38 others''', with most casualties occurring in residential areas lacking storm shelters. Two individuals were killed in separate vehicle incidents along I-40, while another died after a commercial roof collapse. Of the injured, at least 12 were listed in critical condition during the first 24 hours. Search-and-rescue teams spent two days combing debris for survivors and victims. Emergency response in El Reno was bolstered by state aid and National Guard deployments, but debris and blocked roads hindered immediate access to some neighborhoods. The tornado caused extensive damage to both public infrastructure and private property, with total losses estimated in the '''billions of dollars'''. | ||
{{Clear}} | |||
===Berryhill-West Tulsa-Tulsa-The Pearl, Oklahoma=== | |||
{{main|2030 Tulsa tornado}} | |||
{{Infobox tornado Aftermath | |||
|PAGENAME=Berryhill-West Tulsa-Tulsa-The Pearl, Oklahoma | |||
|image location=Tulsa 2030 Damage.jpg | |||
|image caption=A poorly-anchored home impacted at low-end EF3 damage in the Tulsa area. | |||
|formed=May 12, 2030, 12:01 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | |||
|dissipated=May 12, 2030, 12:23 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) | |||
|duration=22 minutes | |||
|highest winds=145 | |||
|fatalities=4 | |||
|injuries=34 | |||
}} | |||
One of the most destructive tornadoes to impact the Tulsa metropolitan area in years struck during the early morning hours of May 12, 2030. Forming just after midnight, the EF3 tornado touched down near Berryhill and quickly intensified as it entered the western edges of Tulsa. Within minutes, it had crossed the Arkansas River and moved into West Tulsa, producing widespread structural damage. Numerous homes and businesses sustained major damage, with several poorly-anchored homes completely destroyed. Doppler radar measured peak wind speeds of 145 mph (233 km/h), with the tornado reaching a maximum width of several hundred yards. The tornado followed a narrow but intense path through densely populated residential and industrial zones, ultimately lifting just east of the Pearl District in central Tulsa after traveling 7.31 miles in 22 minutes. | |||
The most significant damage occurred in parts of West Tulsa and midtown neighborhoods, where numerous single-family homes were severely damaged or destroyed. Several small industrial facilities and commercial buildings suffered major roof loss and wall collapse. Local gas and power infrastructure sustained moderate damage, resulting in temporary outages across several districts. The tornado’s impact was amplified by the time of day—it struck while many residents were asleep, complicating emergency response and forcing many people to shelter in place with little warning. Sirens were activated and NOAA weather radios played a critical role in waking residents before impact. In several areas, large trees were uprooted, and vehicles were tossed into nearby structures or down roadways. | |||
In total, the tornado caused '''four fatalities''' and '''injured at least 34 people'''. The majority of injuries occurred in homes without basements or adequate shelter, while two fatalities were reported in a collapsed duplex in West Tulsa. Emergency crews responded within minutes, aided by pre-positioned search and rescue teams activated earlier in the evening due to the ongoing outbreak. Damage assessments placed total losses at approximately '''$834 million (2030 USD)''', making it one of the costliest tornadoes in Tulsa’s recent history. Cleanup and recovery lasted weeks, and the event prompted renewed discussions about urban tornado preparedness and the resilience of aging infrastructure in major Oklahoma cities. Local and state officials praised the public’s response to warnings but emphasized the importance of shelter accessibility and modernized construction in high-risk zones. | |||
{{Clear}} | |||
===Loma Linda, Missouri=== | |||
{{Infobox tornado Aftermath | |||
|PAGENAME=Loma Linda, Missouri | |||
|image location=<!--Loma Linda 2030 Damage.jpg--> | |||
|image caption=A home that was impacted at low-end EF2 intensity in Loma Linda. | |||
|formed= | |||
|dissipated= | |||
|duration= | |||
|preliminary-rating=EF2P | |||
|highest winds= | |||
|fatalities= | |||
|injuries= | |||
}} | |||
{{Clear}} | {{Clear}} | ||
| Line 120: | Line 190: | ||
The tornado outbreak caused widespread destruction across Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, with several intense and long-track tornadoes contributing to significant loss of life and property. Of the 19 tornadoes confirmed during the event, five were particularly notable for their strength, duration, and impacts. | The tornado outbreak caused widespread destruction across Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, with several intense and long-track tornadoes contributing to significant loss of life and property. Of the 19 tornadoes confirmed during the event, five were particularly notable for their strength, duration, and impacts. | ||
The most catastrophic tornado of the outbreak occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, where an EF5 tornado struck densely populated neighborhoods. The tornado carved a 15.1-mile path through Cleveland and Oklahoma counties, killing at least | The most catastrophic tornado of the outbreak occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, where an EF5 tornado struck densely populated neighborhoods. The tornado carved a 15.1-mile path through Cleveland and Oklahoma counties, killing at least 39 people and injuring more than 324 others. With peak winds estimated at 205 mph (330 km/h), the tornado completely destroyed thousands of structures, including homes, schools, and businesses, and caused an estimated $2.5 billion in damage. This was the third EF5 tornado to strike Moore in just over 30 years, following similar disasters in 1999 and 2013. | ||
Another violent tornado touched down in El Reno, Oklahoma, later rated EF4. The tornado tore through industrial areas and residential neighborhoods on the southern edge of the city, leveling several metal warehouses and severely damaging homes. Multiple injuries were reported, and damage totals | Another violent tornado touched down in El Reno, Oklahoma, later rated EF4. The tornado tore through industrial areas and residential neighborhoods on the southern edge of the city, leveling several metal warehouses and severely damaging homes. Multiple injuries were reported, and damage totals a billion dollars. Wind speeds were estimated to have peaked between 170 mph. Though less deadly than the Moore tornado, the El Reno EF4 was the second most powerful of the outbreak and caused considerable infrastructure disruption. | ||
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a large EF3 tornado impacted the city’s western suburbs during the early evening hours. The tornado damaged dozens of homes and businesses and downed hundreds of trees and power lines. Emergency officials noted that early warning systems helped reduce injuries, though several people were hospitalized, and numerous homes were declared uninhabitable. The tornado’s track spanned several miles across the metro, damaging multiple shopping centers and apartment complexes. | In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a large EF3 tornado impacted the city’s western suburbs during the early evening hours. The tornado damaged dozens of homes and businesses and downed hundreds of trees and power lines. Emergency officials noted that early warning systems helped reduce injuries, though several people were hospitalized, and numerous homes were declared uninhabitable. The tornado’s track spanned several miles across the metro, damaging multiple shopping centers and apartment complexes. | ||
| Line 130: | Line 200: | ||
Farther east, one EF2 tornado tracked across southeastern Kansas before crossing into southwestern Missouri, narrowly missing the city of Joplin. The tornado damaged homes, power lines, and outbuildings in Jasper County, Missouri, particularly in rural communities west of Joplin. Several injuries occurred as mobile homes were overturned and trees fell onto occupied structures. Local emergency services referenced the 2011 Joplin tornado in press briefings, expressing relief that the storm had remained west of the urban center. | Farther east, one EF2 tornado tracked across southeastern Kansas before crossing into southwestern Missouri, narrowly missing the city of Joplin. The tornado damaged homes, power lines, and outbuildings in Jasper County, Missouri, particularly in rural communities west of Joplin. Several injuries occurred as mobile homes were overturned and trees fell onto occupied structures. Local emergency services referenced the 2011 Joplin tornado in press briefings, expressing relief that the storm had remained west of the urban center. | ||
Overall, the outbreak killed at least | Overall, the outbreak killed at least 39 people and injured over 324. The vast majority of casualties occurred in Moore, though tornado-related injuries were reported in at least four counties across three states. Emergency declarations were issued at both state and federal levels, and thousands of first responders were deployed throughout the region to assist with rescue, damage assessment, and recovery. | ||
== Aftermath == | == Aftermath == | ||
Latest revision as of 18:02, 2 May 2025
 The SPC's MODERATE Risk on May 11 | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Duration | May 11-12, 2030 |
| Tornado outbreak | |
| Tornadoes | 19 |
| Maximum rating | EF5 tornado |
| Duration | 14 hours, 37 minutes |
|
| |
| Highest winds | Tornadic - 205 mph (330 km/h) (Moore, Oklahoma EF5 on May 11) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 56 |
| Injuries | 416 |
| Damage | ~$3.7 billion (2025 USD) |
| Areas affected | Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri |
| Power Outages | Unknown |
|
| |
| Part of the Tornadoes of 2030 | |
The Tornado outbreak of May 11–12, 2030, was a destructive and deadly tornado outbreak that affected portions of the Southern Plains and Lower Midwest, primarily impacting Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri. Over a span of 14 hours and 12 minutes, 19 tornadoes touched down across three states, including one rated EF5 on the Enhanced Fujita scale. The most catastrophic tornado of the outbreak occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, where an EF5 wedge tornado caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least 56 fatalities and over 416 injuries.
The outbreak unfolded in response to a powerful springtime low-pressure system interacting with a moist and unstable air mass over the central United States. The Storm Prediction Center issued a Moderate Risk for severe weather on May 11, citing a heightened potential for long-track, violent tornadoes. Tornadic supercells developed rapidly during the afternoon hours, particularly near the dryline–warm front triple point in central Oklahoma. While most tornadoes were weak to moderate in intensity, two were rated violent—an EF4 in El Reno and the aforementioned EF5 in Moore.
In total, the outbreak caused approximately $3.7 billion in damage (2030 USD), making it one of the costliest May outbreaks in recent U.S. history. Emergency declarations were issued in all three affected states, and widespread power outages, infrastructure failure, and search-and-rescue operations continued for days. The Moore tornado alone accounted for the vast majority of casualties and financial loss. The event reaffirmed the Southern Plains’ status as one of the most tornado-prone regions in the world and reignited national discussions about tornado resilience, shelter access, and building codes.
Meteorological synopsis
On May 11, a highly volatile environment developed across the Southern Plains as a strong mid- to upper-level trough exited the Desert Southwest and moved into the central United States. This synoptic setup was characterized by a rapidly deepening surface low near the Texas Panhandle, a warm front lifting into central Oklahoma, and a sharpening dryline trailing southward into Texas. This intersection formed a potent triple point configuration, ideal for tornadic supercell development.
Surface temperatures climbed to 86 °F with dewpoints around 73 °F, creating extremely unstable conditions across the risk zone. The thermodynamic profile included a surface-based CAPE of 4,456 J/kg and a 3-km CAPE of 123 J/kg. Lapse rates were steep, with 0–3 km lapse rates at 8.7 C/km and 3–6 km lapse rates at 7.4 C/km, suggesting deep, vigorous updraft potential. Storm-relative helicity was measured at 457 m²/s², while deep-layer shear and veering wind profiles were supportive of tornadic mesocyclones. Surface relative humidity was high at 83%, and 700–500 mb RH was 55%, suggesting ample moisture for storm maintenance despite modest precipitable water values (PWAT) of 0.4 inches.
The Storm Prediction Center issued a Moderate Risk across central and eastern Oklahoma and northern Texas, citing the potential for strong, long-track tornadoes. A Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Tornado Watch was issued by 16:30 UTC, shortly before the first supercells began to develop. Discrete storms quickly organized into tornadic cells, producing multiple weak tornadoes early in the event, before intensifying into stronger systems. The EF5 tornado in Moore formed from one of these early afternoon storms, which intensified rapidly as it neared the Oklahoma City metro. Additional tornadoes, including an EF4 in El Reno, followed later in the evening as storms progressed eastward into Kansas and Missouri.
Confirmed tornadoes
| EFU | EF0 | EF1 | EF2 | EF3 | EF4 | EF5 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 8 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 19 |
Stillwater, Oklahoma
 A mobile home that was rolled off it's foundation at low-end EF2 intensity in Stillwater. | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 11, 2030, 11:22 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Dissipated | May 11, 2030, 12:03 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Duration | 41 minutes |
| EF2 tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Highest winds | 120 mph (190 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 3 |
| Injuries | 19 |
On the morning of May 11, 2030, a damaging EF2 tornado impacted the city of Stillwater, Oklahoma, causing moderate to locally significant damage across residential and commercial areas. The tornado first touched down at 11:22 a.m. CDT in rural Payne County to the southwest of the city and tracked northeast for 41 minutes, eventually lifting at 12:03 p.m. CDT after passing through the northeast side of Stillwater. The tornado followed a diagonal path that cut across the southern portion of the city, narrowly missing the central business district but impacting several subdivisions and commercial corridors. With maximum estimated winds of 120 mph (190 km/h), the tornado rolled mobile homes off their foundations, peeled roofs from houses, and downed numerous trees and power poles.
Several neighborhoods in the southwest and southeast parts of the city sustained moderate structural damage, including to fences, garages, and outbuildings. At least four mobile homes were overturned in a trailer park west of U.S. Highway 177, resulting in three fatalities, including one elderly resident who was found in a severely damaged unit. Emergency officials reported at least 19 injuries, the majority of which occurred due to flying debris and broken glass. A number of apartment complexes in the southern residential zones had windows blown out and roof sections removed. Despite occurring in the late morning hours, many Oklahoma State University students were off campus due to weekend scheduling, preventing greater injuries downtown. Portions of Stillwater Regional Airport sustained minor damage, including to hangars and parked aircraft.
Power outages affected several thousand residents, and Stillwater Medical Center treated dozens of storm-related injuries within hours of the tornado’s passage. Debris blocked several major roadways including 6th Avenue and Perkins Road, complicating emergency response efforts. Emergency shelters were opened at local schools and churches, and damage assessments revealed dozens of homes and businesses suffered EF1 to low-end EF2 damage. While not among the strongest tornadoes of the outbreak, the Stillwater event was notable for its path through a densely populated area and its fatalities — the most deadly tornado in north-central Oklahoma that day. City officials praised the effectiveness of early warnings but acknowledged the short lead time and rapid tornado formation as contributing factors in the loss of life.
Middleberg-Blanchard, Oklahoma
 A well-built structure destroyed at high-end EF2 intensity in Blanchard. | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 11, 2030, 11:52 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Dissipated | May 11, 2030, 12:41 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Duration | 49 minutes |
| EF2 tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Highest winds | 135 mph (217 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 2 |
| Injuries | 13 |
The Middleberg–Blanchard tornado was a significant EF2 tornado that struck portions of Grady and McClain counties in central Oklahoma on May 11, 2030, as part of a larger tornado outbreak across the Southern Plains. The tornado first touched down at approximately 11:52 a.m. CDT southwest of Middleberg, quickly strengthening as it tracked northeast toward the town of Blanchard. Over the next 49 minutes, the tornado traveled through mostly rural and semi-suburban terrain, reaching peak estimated winds of 135 mph (217 km/h). In Middleberg, the tornado uprooted large trees, overturned farm equipment, and destroyed barns and metal sheds. A number of homes sustained roof loss and window failures, and one outbuilding was swept off its foundation.
As the tornado entered Blanchard city limits, it intensified and produced its most destructive damage. Several residential structures suffered significant roof and wall failures, and one well-built structure—possibly a small business or reinforced home—was completely destroyed, consistent with high-end EF2 damage. Mobile homes were tossed or flipped in at least two trailer parks near Highway 76. Surveillance footage from local businesses captured large debris lofted into the air and swirling across Main Street. In all, approximately 85 homes and buildings were damaged in Blanchard, including a small church that sustained partial roof collapse. Numerous trees were snapped or uprooted, and some cars were displaced from driveways and parking lots.
The tornado resulted in 2 confirmed fatalities and 13 injuries. One fatality occurred when a man in a mobile home was thrown several hundred feet and died at the scene, while the second was a woman struck by debris while seeking shelter in a vehicle. Emergency services responded rapidly but were hindered by blocked roads and localized power outages. Dozens of residents were treated for minor injuries caused by broken glass and falling debris. Several schools in the region had closed early due to the severe weather threat, which likely prevented higher casualty numbers. Overall, the tornado left a swath of moderate to severe damage and underscored the dangers posed even by EF2-rated tornadoes in populated areas. Cleanup and debris removal in Blanchard took over a week, with power fully restored five days after the event.
Moore, Oklahoma
 A well-built restaurant swept off it's foundation at low-end EF5 intensity in Moore. | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 11, 2030, 1:21 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Dissipated | May 11, 2030, 2:07 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Duration | 46 minutes |
| EF5 tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Highest winds | 205 mph (330 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 39 |
| Injuries | 324 |
The most violent tornado of the outbreak struck Moore, Oklahoma, on the afternoon of May 11, producing catastrophic EF5 damage across the city. It developed southwest of Newcastle at approximately 1:21 p.m. CDT and moved northeast, quickly intensifying into a large wedge tornado as it approached the Oklahoma City metro. The tornado reached a peak width of nearly 1 mile and remained on the ground for 15.1 miles before dissipating at 2:07 p.m. CDT near Lake Stanley Draper. Maximum estimated winds were recorded at 205 mph (330 km/h), with radar indicating a strong debris ball and high-end velocity couplet. The storm’s path closely mirrored those of the devastating EF5 tornadoes that impacted Moore in 1999 and 2013, passing through many of the same neighborhoods and subdivisions. Residential areas in southern and central Moore were particularly hard-hit, with entire blocks flattened and many homes swept completely from their foundations.
More than 2,000 homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed by the tornado. Numerous fatalities occurred in residential areas, particularly near Briarwood Elementary School and the Plaza Towers subdivision. While both schools sustained damage, classes were not in session due to the tornado striking on a Saturday, likely preventing further loss of life. Briarwood Elementary suffered partial roof failure and damage to multiple classrooms, while Plaza Towers Elementary — rebuilt after its 2013 destruction — endured significant roof and facade damage, though its reinforced structure remained standing. The tornado’s EF5 rating was assigned based on the total destruction of a well-engineered, anchor-bolted restaurant in southern Moore, the only damage indicator to exceed EF4 thresholds. Debris from the restaurant was scattered hundreds of yards, and anchoring systems were found ripped or sheared. Vehicles were thrown long distances, and several were wrapped around trees or shredded beyond recognition.
In total, the Moore tornado resulted in at least 39 fatalities and over 324 injuries, making it the deadliest single tornado of the 2030 outbreak and one of the deadliest in Oklahoma history since 2013. Emergency response teams described the scene in Moore as chaotic, with blocked roads, power outages, and overwhelmed communications infrastructure. The tornado knocked out power to tens of thousands of residents, ruptured gas lines, and temporarily disabled cell towers and 911 systems. Search and rescue efforts were hampered by debris piles that exceeded ten feet in some areas. Recovery of victims took days, with final identification of all deceased individuals not completed until nearly three weeks later. The National Weather Service and emergency managers praised the effectiveness of early warnings and weather radios, though the tornado’s speed and strength left little time for many to seek shelter. Estimated damage from the Moore tornado alone exceeded $2.5 billion, placing it among the costliest tornadoes in U.S. history. The event once again reignited discussion about tornado resilience, especially in Moore, which has now been struck by three EF5 tornadoes in just over three decades.
In the weeks that followed, damage surveys conducted by the National Weather Service and university research teams revealed further evidence of the tornado’s exceptional power. Ground scouring up to 5-6 inches deep was observed in open fields west of Moore, with one area showing exposed bedrock and uprooted tree systems—hallmarks of violent intensity. Drone and satellite imagery confirmed widespread debris dispersion, with lighter debris carried more than 25 miles downwind. The tornado’s slow, grinding progression through residential neighborhoods was cited as a key factor behind the extreme structural losses and high casualty count. Several homes built to enhanced post-2013 codes were obliterated, leading engineers to reevaluate the effectiveness of current building standards under EF5 loads. Additionally, emotional trauma and displacement were widespread among survivors, many of whom had lived through previous Moore tornadoes. Dozens of community fundraisers and mental health support centers were established in the aftermath to aid long-term recovery. The 2030 Moore tornado not only underscored the city's ongoing vulnerability to catastrophic storms but also served as a defining meteorological case study for future risk mitigation and urban tornado planning efforts.
Ponca City, Oklahoma
 A poorly-built home suffering low-end EF3 damage in Ponca City. | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 11, 2030, 1:32 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Dissipated | May 11, 2030, 2:08 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Duration | 36 minutes |
| EF3 tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Highest winds | 140 mph (230 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 4 |
| Injuries | 22 |
A significant tornado struck Ponca City, Oklahoma, during the mid-afternoon hours of May 11, 2030, as part of the broader severe weather outbreak. The tornado formed at 1:32 p.m. CDT just southwest of the city and tracked northeast through the urban core before dissipating at 2:08 p.m. CDT near Lake Ponca. Rated EF3, the tornado produced peak winds estimated at 140 mph (230 km/h) and was on the ground for 36 minutes. Satellite imagery of the damage swath revealed a well-defined and focused corridor of destruction, with the tornado narrowly missing the city’s primary hospital and striking several residential and industrial sectors directly. The path was roughly 0.5 miles wide at peak, with a concentrated zone of intense winds evident from radar velocity scans. The damage track cut through both commercial corridors and quiet neighborhoods, forcing sudden evacuations in the midst of a quiet Saturday afternoon.
The tornado’s most intense damage occurred along South Avenue and 14th Street, where poorly constructed homes were reduced to rubble and several businesses were heavily damaged. Gas stations and convenience stores along major intersections were partially leveled, and multiple low-rise brick buildings in downtown Ponca City lost roofs or suffered wall collapses. Industrial zones in the southwestern part of the city, including tank farms and rail yards, saw structural failures, fence damage, and overturned equipment. At least one large storage tank was dented and displaced from its foundation. Emergency services were dispatched from nearby towns due to downed power lines and inaccessible roads. While much of downtown appeared sparsely populated at the time, mobile homes and rental properties on the southern outskirts sustained widespread damage. Several trees were debarked in narrow corridors, and cars were overturned or wrapped around power poles. Surveillance footage showed the tornado as a large cone with a thick debris cloud, briefly obscuring visibility across the city.
In total, the tornado resulted in 4 confirmed fatalities and 22 injuries. One fatality occurred in a mobile home that was lofted and thrown into a wooded area. The other deaths happened in homes that lacked basements or reinforced shelter. Several of the injured were trapped under collapsed roofs or pinned by debris until rescue crews could reach them. Of the 17 injuries, at least 5 were listed as critical, with most resulting from flying debris or structural collapse. Power outages affected over 7,000 residents, and the local emergency operations center declared a state of emergency by late afternoon. Initial damage assessments indicated that over 150 structures had sustained varying levels of damage, with a majority occurring in southeastern Ponca City. Though the city has seen economic stagnation and a visibly diminished population in recent decades, the tornado served as a harsh reminder that vulnerability remains — even in quieter, seemingly less active communities. Local officials later emphasized the importance of maintaining tornado preparedness regardless of a city’s growth or decline, calling the event “a wake-up call” for the region.
El Reno, Oklahoma
 A well-built home suffering low-end EF4 damage near downtown El Reno. | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 11, 2030, 2:58 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Dissipated | May 11, 2030, 3:41 p.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Duration | 43 minutes |
| EF4 tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Highest winds | 170 mph (270 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 8 |
| Injuries | 38 |
The second-deadliest tornado of the outbreak impacted El Reno, Oklahoma, during the late afternoon of May 11, 2030. Rated a high-end EF4, the tornado developed just south of Union City at approximately 2:58 p.m. CDT and moved northeast through central Canadian County, striking the core of El Reno before dissipating just after 3:41 p.m. CDT. The National Weather Service in Norman issued a Tornado Emergency for the city as the tornado approached, citing observed large and destructive tornado conditions. The tornado followed a 15-mile path and reached maximum sustained winds of 170 mph (270 km/h). The storm produced widespread destruction across urban, suburban, and rural zones and was the strongest tornado to hit the city since the 2013 El Reno tornado.
The tornado first touched down southwest of the city in rural farmland, where it caused EF2 to EF3 damage to agricultural structures and isolated homes. Numerous metal storage buildings and livestock facilities were obliterated, and a gas compressor station west of El Reno sustained direct impacts that forced temporary evacuations. As the tornado approached El Reno proper, it rapidly intensified into a large cone tornado, producing a visible debris cloud and radar-confirmed debris ball by 3:08 p.m. CDT. Upon reaching the downtown area, the tornado caused severe damage to homes, schools, and commercial buildings. Several residential subdivisions experienced near-complete destruction, including two-story brick homes that were reduced to foundations. The tornado crossed U.S. Route 81 and Interstate 40, where multiple vehicles were tossed from the highway. A pickup truck was lofted more than 500 feet and thrown into an overpass.
El Reno Regional Airport sustained significant damage as the tornado crossed its main runway. Several small aircraft were flipped or destroyed, and jet fuel tanks ignited in a brief flash fire, although no fatalities occurred at the airport. Additional damage was reported at a fire station, water treatment facility, and community center. Citywide water service was disrupted, and dozens of power poles were snapped across the city. Surveillance cameras captured dramatic footage of the tornado as it tore through industrial parks and parking lots, scattering vehicles and debris across open fields.
In total, the tornado killed 8 people and injured 38 others, with most casualties occurring in residential areas lacking storm shelters. Two individuals were killed in separate vehicle incidents along I-40, while another died after a commercial roof collapse. Of the injured, at least 12 were listed in critical condition during the first 24 hours. Search-and-rescue teams spent two days combing debris for survivors and victims. Emergency response in El Reno was bolstered by state aid and National Guard deployments, but debris and blocked roads hindered immediate access to some neighborhoods. The tornado caused extensive damage to both public infrastructure and private property, with total losses estimated in the billions of dollars.
Berryhill-West Tulsa-Tulsa-The Pearl, Oklahoma
 A poorly-anchored home impacted at low-end EF3 damage in the Tulsa area. | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| Formed | May 12, 2030, 12:01 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Dissipated | May 12, 2030, 12:23 a.m. CDT (UTC-5:00) |
| Duration | 22 minutes |
| EF3 tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Highest winds | 145 mph (233 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 4 |
| Injuries | 34 |
One of the most destructive tornadoes to impact the Tulsa metropolitan area in years struck during the early morning hours of May 12, 2030. Forming just after midnight, the EF3 tornado touched down near Berryhill and quickly intensified as it entered the western edges of Tulsa. Within minutes, it had crossed the Arkansas River and moved into West Tulsa, producing widespread structural damage. Numerous homes and businesses sustained major damage, with several poorly-anchored homes completely destroyed. Doppler radar measured peak wind speeds of 145 mph (233 km/h), with the tornado reaching a maximum width of several hundred yards. The tornado followed a narrow but intense path through densely populated residential and industrial zones, ultimately lifting just east of the Pearl District in central Tulsa after traveling 7.31 miles in 22 minutes.
The most significant damage occurred in parts of West Tulsa and midtown neighborhoods, where numerous single-family homes were severely damaged or destroyed. Several small industrial facilities and commercial buildings suffered major roof loss and wall collapse. Local gas and power infrastructure sustained moderate damage, resulting in temporary outages across several districts. The tornado’s impact was amplified by the time of day—it struck while many residents were asleep, complicating emergency response and forcing many people to shelter in place with little warning. Sirens were activated and NOAA weather radios played a critical role in waking residents before impact. In several areas, large trees were uprooted, and vehicles were tossed into nearby structures or down roadways.
In total, the tornado caused four fatalities and injured at least 34 people. The majority of injuries occurred in homes without basements or adequate shelter, while two fatalities were reported in a collapsed duplex in West Tulsa. Emergency crews responded within minutes, aided by pre-positioned search and rescue teams activated earlier in the evening due to the ongoing outbreak. Damage assessments placed total losses at approximately $834 million (2030 USD), making it one of the costliest tornadoes in Tulsa’s recent history. Cleanup and recovery lasted weeks, and the event prompted renewed discussions about urban tornado preparedness and the resilience of aging infrastructure in major Oklahoma cities. Local and state officials praised the public’s response to warnings but emphasized the importance of shelter accessibility and modernized construction in high-risk zones.
Loma Linda, Missouri
| No image provided | |
| Meteorological history | |
|---|---|
| EF2+ tornado | |
| on the Enhanced Fujita scale | |
| Overall effects |
Impact
The tornado outbreak caused widespread destruction across Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri, with several intense and long-track tornadoes contributing to significant loss of life and property. Of the 19 tornadoes confirmed during the event, five were particularly notable for their strength, duration, and impacts.
The most catastrophic tornado of the outbreak occurred in Moore, Oklahoma, where an EF5 tornado struck densely populated neighborhoods. The tornado carved a 15.1-mile path through Cleveland and Oklahoma counties, killing at least 39 people and injuring more than 324 others. With peak winds estimated at 205 mph (330 km/h), the tornado completely destroyed thousands of structures, including homes, schools, and businesses, and caused an estimated $2.5 billion in damage. This was the third EF5 tornado to strike Moore in just over 30 years, following similar disasters in 1999 and 2013.
Another violent tornado touched down in El Reno, Oklahoma, later rated EF4. The tornado tore through industrial areas and residential neighborhoods on the southern edge of the city, leveling several metal warehouses and severely damaging homes. Multiple injuries were reported, and damage totals a billion dollars. Wind speeds were estimated to have peaked between 170 mph. Though less deadly than the Moore tornado, the El Reno EF4 was the second most powerful of the outbreak and caused considerable infrastructure disruption.
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, a large EF3 tornado impacted the city’s western suburbs during the early evening hours. The tornado damaged dozens of homes and businesses and downed hundreds of trees and power lines. Emergency officials noted that early warning systems helped reduce injuries, though several people were hospitalized, and numerous homes were declared uninhabitable. The tornado’s track spanned several miles across the metro, damaging multiple shopping centers and apartment complexes.
To the north, an EF3 tornado affected the Ponca City area in north-central Oklahoma. The tornado remained on the ground for over 20 minutes and caused heavy damage to agricultural structures and rural homes. Several large barns were completely destroyed, and debris was thrown across highways. Despite the intensity of the storm, no fatalities were reported, though a handful of residents were treated for storm-related injuries.
Farther east, one EF2 tornado tracked across southeastern Kansas before crossing into southwestern Missouri, narrowly missing the city of Joplin. The tornado damaged homes, power lines, and outbuildings in Jasper County, Missouri, particularly in rural communities west of Joplin. Several injuries occurred as mobile homes were overturned and trees fell onto occupied structures. Local emergency services referenced the 2011 Joplin tornado in press briefings, expressing relief that the storm had remained west of the urban center.
Overall, the outbreak killed at least 39 people and injured over 324. The vast majority of casualties occurred in Moore, though tornado-related injuries were reported in at least four counties across three states. Emergency declarations were issued at both state and federal levels, and thousands of first responders were deployed throughout the region to assist with rescue, damage assessment, and recovery.
Aftermath
In the days following the outbreak, state and federal emergency management agencies—including FEMA and the Oklahoma National Guard—deployed personnel to aid in recovery efforts. Search and rescue missions continued for over 72 hours in the hardest-hit areas. Dozens of shelters were opened to house displaced families, and mutual aid was sent from neighboring states to assist with food distribution, medical triage, and debris removal.
Due to the scope and severity of the Moore tornado, national attention was quickly drawn to the event. News outlets provided continuous coverage, while meteorologists and emergency officials praised the effectiveness of early warnings, even as they acknowledged the limitations of shelter access and structural failure. The event sparked renewed debate over tornado safety, including the implementation of mandatory storm shelters in schools and mobile home parks. Insurance companies projected that damages from the outbreak would rank among the top 10 most expensive spring outbreaks on record.
A federal disaster declaration was approved by the President two days after the event, unlocking funds for long-term housing and rebuilding. Psychological services and trauma counseling were made available to affected families, particularly in the Moore area. Public schools in the affected districts were closed for over a week, and makeshift classrooms were set up in churches, gyms, and community centers. In the months that followed, the National Weather Service conducted extensive damage surveys and case studies to improve understanding of storm dynamics in high-CAPE, low-PWAT environments.