Weather forecasters were warning of a tornado outbreak across Oklahoma and portions of Texas on May 20.
An “outbreak of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms” was expected over much of Oklahoma, northwest Texas, and the eastern Texas Panhandle, the National Weather Service said in an alert on Monday morning.
The outbreak could also affect Kansas and Arkansas, the agency said.
The tornadoes could be “long-track and violent” and the outbreak could bring tornadoes and “destructive winds and hail” into the four states, the service added. The winds could be “hurricane force” with large hail, some the size of baseballs is also expected.
Significant Tornado Outbreak Likely Today
Long-track, fast-moving, and intense tornadoes will be possible today across parts of Texas & Oklahoma. Large hail and damaging winds also a concern.
Today’s a day to plan ahead. Have multiple ways to receive weather information. pic.twitter.com/HEH2nYEmSa
— NWS SPC (@NWSSPC) May 20, 2019
Here’s the updated scoop for today. The BIG Message: Large Hail & Tornadoes Possible. Stay alert for changes as small changes can have a big impact. AMARILLO: your window for impacts: Noon-4 PM. #phwx pic.twitter.com/BIQpvJIInI
— NWS Amarillo (@NWSAmarillo) May 20, 2019
10:42am CDT #SPC_MD 0698 , #okwx #txwx, https://t.co/L6dfzsr4Bn pic.twitter.com/kN5UgSWVX2
— NWS SPC (@NWSSPC) May 20, 2019
The risk level was categorized as “high” in and around Oklahoma City and Lawton and a threat level for tornadoes was 5 out of 5.
CNN meteorologist Brandon Miller said that violent tornadoes account for 0.5 percent of all tornadoes but have inflicted about 50 percent of all deaths from tornadoes.
“Tornadoes could occur well after dark, making this situation potentially even more deadly,” said CNN meteorologist Dave Hennen.
Over 2 million people are in the areas under a tornado watch, Miller added. More than 50 million are at risk of other severe weather such as high winds and flash flooding.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said that there is a high risk of flash flooding in and around Oklahoma City and a medium risk of flash flooding in southern Kansas, southwestern Missouri, northwestern Arkansas, and a portion of northern Texas. A slight risk exists in other states.
A HIGH risk is in effect in our Day 1 Excessive Rainfall Outlook. More details: https://t.co/FQU5sb4jjg pic.twitter.com/Dwo010easa
— NWS WPC (@NWSWPC) May 20, 2019
MPS will be closed tomorrow – Monday, May 20, 2019. Please be weather aware. @MooreHS1 @WestmooreHS @SouthmooreHS pic.twitter.com/csYHqIRn3Z
— Moore Public Schools (@MoorePublicSch) May 19, 2019
Know where to go when a Tornado warning is issued for your area. Under an overpass is literally “the worst” place to be. Get inside a storm shelter or well-constructed structure and find the lowest central location you can to take shelter. pic.twitter.com/7txDIVCwJt
— National Weather Service (@NWS) May 20, 2019
Tinker Air Force Base evacuated aircraft on Monday morning and told employees they could take a day of leave, while schools in and around Oklahoma City were closed on Monday.
Oklahoma City Public Schools announced that all classes and activities were canceled for Monday due to the storms.
“We believe this is the best decision for our students, staff, and families as their health and safety are a priority,” Moore Public Schools said in a statement posted to Twitter. “Please ensure safety plans are in place for your family in case needed for severe weather.”
