Tornado traps Enid family in storm shelter and devastates homes
By Dacoda Wahpekeche
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ENID, Oklahoma (KOCO) — A tornado struck Enid causing widespread destruction, trapping residents and prompting a large response from emergency crews.
Jeremy, a resident in the affected area south of Highway 81, told KOCO 5’s Dacoda Wahpekeche that he and his family were trapped in their storm shelter for 30 minutes after a brick wall from their home collapsed on top of it. He was with his wife and at least one of their kids. He said another family member working in town was unharmed.
First responders rescued the family, and they are now safe.
Police officers, state troopers and other first responders were actively working in the area, which was blocked off.
Residents were returning to the scene, concerned about their homes and wondering how long the situation will last. One neighbor reportedly couldn’t bear to look at their damaged home after emerging from their tornado shelter, choosing instead to walk away.
Emergency crews, including firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation are addressing downed power lines, debris and blocked driveways in rural Garfield and Major counties.
The tornado has left the community in shock, as Enid hasn’t experienced a storm of this magnitude in years. Residents are texting and checking in with each other, trying to process the devastation.
First responders continue to arrive from surrounding areas, with about 25 to 30 firefighters assisting in rural parts of the county.
Officials said at least 10 people had minor injuries, and no fatalities were reported on Thursday night.
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