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A powerful tornado tore through the city of Enid, Oklahoma, for about 30 minutes on Thursday (April 23), leaving widespread destruction across neighborhoods and causing at least 10 to 15 injuries, but no reported fatalities. The tornado was part of a larger system of severe storms that struck northern Oklahoma and surrounding states, damaging homes, infrastructure, and power lines.
According to local officials and emergency management teams, the hardest-hit area was the Gray Ridge neighborhood in southern Enid, where homes were severely damaged or destroyed. The tornado also caused damage near Vance Air Force Base and downed utility poles, leading to power outages and hazardous road conditions. Emergency crews worked overnight to search for victims, clear debris, and restore essential services.
State officials and meteorologists described the tornado’s strength as possibly reaching EF-4 or EF-5 levels, with the National Weather Service set to provide an official rating after surveying the area. Videos taken by residents captured the large, fast-moving funnel cloud as it approached Enid, highlighting how quickly conditions turned dangerous.
Emergency responders, including police, fire, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol, went door to door in the most affected neighborhoods to rescue trapped residents and check for injuries. Enid Mayor David Mason said some people were pulled from debris by officers, while state troopers conducted secondary searches to ensure everyone’s safety. The Red Cross set up a shelter at the Chisholm Trail Expo Center, and local businesses offered support and supplies to those impacted by the storm.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt expressed relief that there were no fatalities and said, "Thank the Lord that there were no deaths, a few minor injuries. But man, I'm gonna be heading up to Enid here in a little bit to meet with the officials, but we're so fortunate that there [are] no deaths at this point." He added that the state is working closely with local leaders to assess damage and coordinate recovery efforts.
Officials warned that more severe weather could impact Oklahoma in the coming days, urging residents to stay alert, follow weather warnings, and seek shelter if necessary. Cleanup and recovery efforts are underway, with damage assessments and power restoration expected to continue into the weekend.