Parts of Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky are on high alert as more than 10 million people brace themselves for severe thunderstorms forecasted for Tuesday, with the potential for powerful tornadoes, amidst ongoing extreme weather battering the southern plains.
Monday night saw a barrage of 17 tornadoes wreak havoc across the plains, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake and rendering over 16,000 homes and businesses powerless. Small towns bore the brunt of the devastation, none more so than Barnsdall, Oklahoma, a community of around 1,000 residents situated north of Tulsa.
Tragically, Barnsdall witnessed the loss of life as a tornado tore through the town, claiming one victim and injuring at least five others. Local news outlet KOCO reported damage to 40 homes, with harrowing drone footage capturing the extent of destruction—mangled houses, overturned cars, and toppled power lines strewn across the landscape.
Amidst the chaos, stories of heroism emerged as storm chasers documented the rescue of a family, including a young child, from their collapsed home in Barnsdall. However, the threat is far from over, as the National Weather Service cautioned residents to remain vigilant, warning of the continued likelihood of severe thunderstorms throughout Tuesday afternoon and evening, with a potential for storm re-intensification as the day progresses.
In the aftermath of the devastation, fire crews are tirelessly combing through the debris in the small towns north of Tulsa, preparing for the challenges that lie ahead.