A powerful storm system triggered a tornado warning across northwestern Oklahoma on Thursday night after meteorologists detected strong rotation inside a severe thunderstorm moving across the region. The warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Norman, which said the storm posed an immediate threat to communities in southeastern Alfalfa County and northeastern Major County.
Officials warned that the alert would remain in effect until 9:30 PM CST as the storm continued moving across the area. Authorities said the system had the potential to produce a tornado along with damaging hail and strong winds.
Storm spotters confirmed a large wedge tornado on the ground near Cleo Springs, a small town in northwestern Oklahoma. According to reports from News 9 storm spotters monitoring the system, the tornado was moving northeast toward Goltry while producing large hail. Ping-pong ball–sized hailstones were reported as the storm intensified across the region.
A wedge tornado refers to a large tornado whose width appears greater than its height, often indicating an especially powerful and destructive storm structure.
At approximately 8:58 PM CST, meteorologists located the storm roughly four miles north of Cleo Springs. The system was moving northeast at around 25 miles per hour, placing several nearby communities in its projected path.
Areas expected to face the highest risk included Helena, Cleo Springs, Goltry and Aline. Meanwhile, residents in Fairview and Enid were also closely monitoring the storm as authorities tracked its movement across northwestern Oklahoma.
Officials warned that the storm’s hazards extend beyond the tornado itself, with large hail and damaging winds capable of causing significant property damage.
The National Weather Service warned that flying debris from the tornado could pose a severe threat to anyone outdoors. Mobile homes and temporary structures are particularly vulnerable, while roofs, vehicles and windows may also sustain major damage if the storm intensifies.
Residents were urged to move immediately to a storm shelter, safe room or interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Officials also advised people to stay away from windows and avoid remaining in vehicles or mobile homes during the storm.
Authorities emphasised that the situation remains active and dangerous as the tornado continues moving across the region.
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