Devastating tornadoes in the US: homes and infrastructure destroyed, people injured
On 23 April, a powerful tornado struck Oklahoma, damaging homes, ripping off roofs and toppling power lines. The storm affected areas near Vance Air Force Base, according to APnews.
According to the National Weather Service, a confirmed tornado passed through part of the city of Enid, home to around 50,000 people. Published videos show a rapidly spinning funnel cloud and destroyed homes.
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office reported that no fatalities were recorded following the tornado, with only minor injuries reported. Law enforcement officers are going door-to-door to check on residents.
Enid Police spokeswoman Cass Rains noted that reports had been received of people who may have been trapped in their homes, as well as of significant damage.
Vance Air Force Base was also affected by the storm, though the exact extent of the damage has not been specified. A statement from the base said checks were being carried out to establish the whereabouts and safety of all personnel.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has called for support for the affected community of Enid, which was severely impacted by the tornado.
According to the AP, at least 10 people were injured as a result of the storm. Search and rescue operations are ongoing in the affected areas.
In total, 17 tornadoes were recorded on the evening of 23 April, stretching from Oklahoma to Iowa. Tornado warnings have been issued in a number of states, particularly from Missouri to Iowa, with danger levels set at two and three out of a possible five.
Over a thousand tornadoes are recorded in the US every year. The spring season begins in March, with the highest activity usually occurring in April, May and June. In May, an average of around 268 tornadoes are recorded annually, according to data from 1991–2020.
