SEMINOLE, Okla. — Storms tore through part of Oklahoma on Wednesday, bringing a possible tornado to Seminole.
2 News Meteorologist Michael Seger came across damage while chasing the storm system as it headed toward Green Country.
Seminole, OK just took a hit from a tornado… #okwx pic.twitter.com/icqG8c2kpN
— Michael Seger (@MichaelSeger) May 5, 2022
>> Photos: Severe storms, possible tornado hits Seminole
The National Weather Service will survey the damage to determine the strength of the tornado. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt scheduled a tour of the damage on Thursday.
Closed highways started reopening overnight.
We’re assisting in Seminole in the aftermath of storm damage there. This is Trooper Caleb Scott #645 blocking the roadway at SH 377 and SH 270 protecting motorists from the downed power lines. pic.twitter.com/HlNSrbrbcG
— OK Highway Patrol/DPS (@OHPDPS) May 5, 2022
Tulsa-based Summit Roofing and Solar came out to Seminole on Thursday to help families tarp roofs and check leaks for free.
Muscogee Nation Principal Chief David Hill said Lighthorse police dispatched officers to the Seminole and Okemah areas to help with emergency response.
"Lots of severe weather across the Reservation tonight," Hill wrote on Facebook. "Stay weather aware and pray for those who have been affected or may be in the path of these storms. And keep our first responders, officers and emergency personnel in your thoughts as well. Mvto and stay safe!"
OG&E reported thousands of customers in the area without power as of 4:30 p.m. Thursday
"OG&E crews are continuing to work to restore service as quickly and safely as possible to approximately 3,700 customers who are without power across the service area, primarily in Seminole, Wewoka and Holdenville.
More than 500 restoration personnel are mobilized and evaluating damage together with crews actively working to construct poles as well as repair, replace and retie lines. The restoration teams are in ongoing communication with local officials to prioritize essential services. Crews prioritize repairs that impact the most customers first by repairing damage to transmission lines and then distribution lines.
As crews restore power, OG&E is also using helicopters and drones to assess the full extent of the damage from the tornadoes to lines, equipment and infrastructure.
To date, this severe weather event has caused significant damage, including:
- 133 poles
- 36 transformers
- Approximately 44,300 feet of wire
Please stay safe and stay away from downed power lines and anything they are touching. Report downed power lines by calling 800-522-6870. "
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