Tulsa, Oklahoma is assessing damage after severe storms and a possible tornado moved through North Tulsa Friday evening, impacting areas near 36th and 46th Street North. City emergency response teams are currently checking roadways, infrastructure and responding to damage reports, focusing on areas around Lewis Avenue and Peoria Avenue.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols shared images on Facebook documenting the localized impacts of the storm, stating, “Took a preliminary tour of some of the damage tonight in North Tulsa after a tornado moved through the area and caused localized impacts. While we’re grateful there are no reports of injuries in Tulsa at this time, our thoughts are with those across Northeast Oklahoma who experienced more severe impacts from tonight’s storms.” Nichols urged residents to stay safe, noting the potential for additional storms, and to avoid areas with storm damage to allow crews to work.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt confirmed state agencies are assisting with recovery efforts in both Tulsa and Beggs following the tornadoes. “Just got off calls with Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols and Beggs Mayor Roger Merrill following tornadoes in their communities this evening,” Stitt wrote. “We are committed to assist with their recovery efforts. The state’s agencies remain engaged across Green Country this evening. Please continue to stay weather-aware as storms persist into the night.”
The city reports scattered damage across North Tulsa, including damage to roofs and trees, and downed power lines. Officials are requesting that residents avoid unnecessary travel in the affected areas to allow emergency crews safe access.
Road Closure and Safety Concerns
36th Street North between Peoria Avenue and Lansing Avenue is currently closed due to downed power lines and a confirmed gas leak. Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) is expected to begin removing the power lines Saturday morning, and the road will remain closed until the work is completed. Residents are warned to treat any downed power line as live and dangerous, and to avoid contact. Downed lines can be reported to PSO at 1-833-776-6884 (1-833-PSO-OUTG) or by calling 911 in an emergency.
Widespread Power Outages
More than 6,000 customers in Tulsa County are currently experiencing power outages, according to city officials. Anyone who smells natural gas is advised to immediately leave the area and contact 911. The city is promising further updates as damage assessments continue.
Here’s the Mayor’s Facebook post regarding the damage:
