A strong tornado struck the city of Woodward, OK just after Midnight on Saturday night/Sunday morning, April 15, 2012. The emergency manager preliminarily reports that 89 homes and 13 businesses were destroyed. Even worse, 6 people were killed and 29 were injured.
The above photo is actually a screen shot (by Patrick Marsh) of the tornado during a lightning flash, taken from the following video (via Woodward News - click on the "black box" to start the video):
Extensive reports of damage are coming in, mainly East of 34th Street and North of Oklahoma Avenue. Emergency crews report several injuries, possibly critical, at the Hideaway Trailer Park. Extensive damage to homes was also reported on Quail Avenue.
The following damage photos are via the Woodward News:
On Cheyenne Dr.
at Hideaway Mobile Home Park
Unknown location - via Woodward News
via Woodward News
via Woodward News
Note mobile home completely gone - via Woodward News
via Woodward News
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Norman is still completing their damage survey. So far they have rated the tornado at EF-3 intensity, with estimated maximum winds of up to 165 mph. The survey estimates that the tornado touched down about 2 miles Northeast of Arnett and lifted about 4 miles North of Woodward. Below is an approximate timeline and track:
Some of you may have read my recent post concerning underground tornado shelters, and how they're the only sure way to survive a strong or violent tornado. As if we needed further proof, take a look a this video shot by a family that survived the Woodward tornado. Note the door to their underground shelter in the last few seconds of the video. They were in that shelter when the tornado tore away most of the home above them. Other than the grace of God, it's likely the reason that they are here to share their story today...
If you're interested in this event, please bookmark this post and check back for updates as information becomes available over the coming days...
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3 comments:
Actually that video clip is from Marty Logan Storm tracker from News9
Anonymous, thanks. That's why I said "via" Woodward News. They did not credit anyone with the video...
Cheyenne circle had a direct hit. Behind McDonald's.
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