Weather
Confirmed Tornado Near Owasso, Oklahoma Moves Toward Collinsville as Emergency Crews Respond
A confirmed tornado touched down near Owasso, Oklahoma, on the north side of Tulsa Friday evening and was moving toward Collinsville, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Tulsa.
Meteorologists reported that the tornado was first confirmed near U.S. Highway 169 and 96th Street North on the west side of Owasso.
The storm system continued tracking north to northeast, placing several nearby communities in its projected path.
Authorities warned residents in Owasso, Collinsville, Turley, Sperry, and surrounding areas to take immediate shelter as the tornado moved through populated neighborhoods.
Officials emphasized that residents should already be in a secure location rather than attempting to travel to one, as conditions were rapidly deteriorating.
Emergency responders reported significant damage in areas between Mohawk Boulevard and 46th Street North, particularly in neighborhoods located between Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Lewis Avenue.
Officials cautioned that numerous roads may be blocked due to debris, downed power lines, and other storm-related hazards.
Multiple emergency agencies, including the Tulsa Fire Department, EMSA, the Tulsa Police Department, and additional law enforcement units, were dispatched to assist with rescue operations and assess damage in affected areas.
Early response efforts were concentrated near the intersection of MLK Boulevard and Mohawk Boulevard and extending northeast toward Turley.
Local warning systems were activated as the storm approached populated areas. Tornado sirens sounded across parts of southwestern Owasso after those areas were included in an active tornado warning.
Weather officials also noted that tornado-warned storms were entering the Tulsa metropolitan area, increasing the urgency for residents to seek shelter.
The National Weather Service reiterated that a Tornado Emergency designation is reserved for situations in which a powerful tornado is ongoing and moving toward densely populated areas, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
At approximately 6:37 p.m., meteorologists confirmed the tornado remained on the ground on the north side of Tulsa and continued tracking toward Owasso and Collinsville. A tornado warning was issued for Owasso and surrounding communities, with severe weather alerts expected to remain in effect across the region through the evening hours.
Residents were urged to remain weather-aware, monitor trusted weather sources for updates, and be prepared to execute their shelter plans immediately if warnings were extended.
Emergency officials said response and damage assessments were ongoing, and they encouraged the public to avoid affected areas so first responders can continue rescue and recovery efforts safely.
Thoughts and prayers were expressed for those impacted as crews worked to assist residents and secure affected neighborhoods.
At least three people have died and 12 others were injured after a powerful tornado tore through Union City, Michigan, on Friday, according to the Branch County Sheriff’s Office.
The storm caused widespread destruction as it moved through residential neighborhoods, leaving homes heavily damaged or destroyed and debris scattered across the community.
Emergency officials said three of the injured victims were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment, while others were treated for various injuries.
“Our thoughts are with those who have lost family, friends, and property during this incident,” the Branch County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement as emergency crews continued search, rescue, and recovery operations across the affected area.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid traveling to or through impacted neighborhoods so first responders can safely conduct emergency response efforts.
Deputies also warned the public to take several important safety precautions while recovery operations remain underway.
Residents are advised to:
- Stay away from damaged or unstable structures, including buildings marked by emergency personnel.
- Avoid downed power lines, fallen trees, and scattered debris, which may pose serious hazards.
- Refrain from entering restricted or closed areas where crews are actively working.
Officials also warned that additional severe weather could develop overnight Friday into Saturday, urging residents to remain weather-aware and seek shelter immediately if new warnings are issued.
Authorities encouraged the public to continue monitoring local forecasts and emergency alerts for updated information.
The storm has also caused power outages, road closures, and disruptions to cellular and internet service in some areas.
Emergency crews, utility workers, and local officials are currently working to assess the extent of the damage, restore essential services, and clear roadways.
Further updates are expected to be released as officials gather more information about the storm’s impact and ongoing recovery efforts.