Flash flooding in southwest Oklahoma has led to at least one fatality, prompting authorities to advise residents to avoid roadways as severe weather warnings persist. The Lawton Police Department reported that emergency responders witnessed a vehicle enter standing water but were unable to safely reach it. Recovery efforts for the victim are ongoing, and the identity has yet to be disclosed. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt commended the first responders conducting water rescues and emphasized the importance of safety and vigilance regarding flooded roads.
By Sunday afternoon, water levels started receding in some areas of Lawton. However, Cotton County Emergency Management has urged residents in flood zones in Walters, Oklahoma, to evacuate, as floodwaters are projected to rise further. Efforts are underway to provide sandbags to affected residents.
Simultaneously, extremely critical fire weather conditions are reported across the Southwest and Rockies, exacerbated by high wind gusts and low humidity. Approximately 7 million people are under alerts in regions including Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and west Texas. A broader area from Montana to Texas faces additional severe weather risks, with potential winds of 70 mph, large hail, and tornado possibilities.
On Monday, the severe weather threat will extend to 36 million people from Texas to Michigan, impacting cities such as Minneapolis, Chicago, and Oklahoma City. The strongest storms are anticipated in the late afternoon and overnight, with risks of tornadoes, hail, and powerful wind gusts, as localized flash flooding is possible in the central U.S.
As the weather system progresses eastward, a slight risk for severe weather will affect areas from New York to Indianapolis and Cleveland by midweek, with potential isolated tornadoes, high winds, and hail continuing in some regions.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
