ENID, Okla. (AP) — Emergency responders mobilized Thursday evening after a confirmed tornado swept through an Oklahoma community, stripping rooftops from structures and toppling electrical infrastructure near Vance Air Force Base, local authorities reported.
The National Weather Service verified the twister’s path through sections of Enid, home to approximately 50,000 residents located close to Oklahoma’s northern boundary. Online footage captured the spinning funnel cloud making ground contact alongside completely destroyed residences.
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office reported no deaths and only minor injuries in the hours following the tornado’s passage. Law enforcement personnel conducted house-to-house wellness checks throughout affected neighborhoods.
Vance Air Force Base sustained tornado damage, though officials have not yet determined the full scope of destruction. Base leadership announced via social media that they “are currently conducting accountability procedures to ensure all personnel are safe and accounted for.”
“Please join me in praying for the Enid community, which has been severely impacted by tonight’s tornado,” Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt posted on social media.
Enid Police Department spokesperson Cass Rains confirmed initial reports indicated residents trapped inside damaged homes and widespread property destruction. The affected Garfield County area encompasses Vance Air Force Base, situated roughly 80 miles north of Oklahoma City.
