At least 10 people were injured and multiple homes and structures were destroyed after powerful tornadoes moved through northern Oklahoma on Thursday, leaving widespread damage across Garfield County and surrounding areas.
Storm chasers reported a large tornado moving near Vance Air Force Base, tearing through neighborhoods and scattering debris across roads and properties. Several homes and buildings were heavily impacted as the storm system swept through the region.
Search and Rescue Efforts Underway in Hard-Hit Areas
Emergency crews quickly launched search and rescue operations in Garfield County, focusing heavily on the Gray Ridge neighborhood on the south side of Enid, which officials say was among the hardest-hit areas.
City official Mike Honigsberg said the neighborhood had been “leveled,” though the full extent of the damage may not be known until later. Authorities confirmed that some residents were trapped inside homes and possibly vehicles during the storm.
Crews went door to door Thursday night, checking for survivors and ensuring no one remained trapped under debris. Enid Mayor David Mason said multiple agencies coordinated efforts, dividing the city into sections to conduct systematic searches.
Mason confirmed that, as of Thursday night, all known residents had been accounted for.
Injuries Reported but No Fatalities Confirmed
The Garfield County emergency manager reported at least 10 injuries, primarily in the Gray Ridge area. Officials said the injuries were considered minor.
As of 4 a.m. Friday, no fatalities had been reported.
Other areas, including Braman and Newkirk, also experienced tornado activity earlier in the day, but no injuries were reported there.
Mayor Mason added that several residents had to be rescued from damaged areas during the emergency response.
Widespread Damage Across Enid and Surrounding Areas
Authorities confirmed that multiple homes were damaged or destroyed, especially in the Gray Ridge neighborhood.
Garfield County Sheriff Jody Helm (referred in reports as Rink) said the area sustained heavy damage, with numerous crews deployed to assist.
“I do know I’m hearing it’s heavily damaged… we’ve got a lot of crews out there in that area,” he said.
Power lines were also knocked down across Highway 81, creating additional hazards and complicating recovery efforts.
Residents have been urged to stay away from affected zones to allow emergency crews to operate safely and efficiently.
Impact on Vance Air Force Base
The tornado also struck Vance Air Force Base, though officials confirmed no injuries occurred on the base.
Initial assessments indicated only minor structural damage, but evaluations are ongoing.
Official Statements from the Base
Thursday Night Statement:
Base leadership confirmed that accountability procedures were underway to ensure all personnel were safe. Officials also began assessing damage to infrastructure and facilities while coordinating with local emergency responders.
Friday Morning Update:
The base announced it would remain closed until further notice due to ongoing power and water restoration.
Only mission-essential personnel were instructed to report, while others were told to stay home and monitor official communications.
Those affected by the storm were directed to seek shelter at the Chisholm Trail Expo Center in Enid.
State Officials Offer Support and Assistance
Kevin Stitt reached out to local leaders, offering state support and resources.
In a public statement, he urged residents to stay weather-aware and emphasized continued coordination with Enid officials.
“Please join me in praying for the Enid community… I will continue working with them as they assess the damage and identify needs,” he said.
Multiple lawmakers and state officials have also contacted local authorities to offer assistance.
Shelter and Emergency Support for Residents
Emergency response teams worked through the night to help displaced residents. Enid Public Transportation deployed shuttles to transport people from heavily damaged areas to overnight shelters.
The Chisholm Trail Expo Center was designated as a primary shelter location, providing safety and resources for those affected.
Once search operations are completed in specific areas, heavy equipment crews are being deployed to begin clearing debris.
Community Faces Recovery After Devastating Storm
The tornadoes that tore through northern Oklahoma left a trail of destruction, particularly in Enid’s Gray Ridge neighborhood. While the absence of fatalities offers some relief, the damage to homes, infrastructure, and daily life is significant.
Emergency crews continue their work, and state support is being mobilized as the community begins the long process of recovery.
