Severe Weather Safety in Central Oklahoma
Central Oklahoma experiences some of the most extreme weather in the country. Preparing ahead of time and knowing what to do when severe weather strikes can reduce injuries, protect property, and save lives.
Severe Weather is a Fact of Life in Oklahoma - Preparation Makes the Difference
Stay Informed Before Severe Weather
Severe weather often develops quickly. Early warnings give you time to act.
Tornado & High Wind Safety
Tornadoes are the most dangerous severe weather threat in central Oklahoma.
If a Tornado Warning is Issued
Seek shelter immediately
Go to a storm shelter if available
If not, go to a small interior room on the lowest level
Basements are best; otherwise use a bathroom, closet, or hallway
Stay away from windows
Cover your head and neck with your arms, a mattress, or heavy blanket
If You are in a Mobile Home
Leave immediately and go to a nearby sturdy building or storm shelter
Mobile homes offer little protection from high winds
If You Are Driving
Do not try to outrun a tornado
Avoid overpasses
Seek shelter in a sturdy building if possible
As a last resort, lie flat in a low area and protect your head
Severe Thunderstorms & Large Hail
Severe thunderstorms can bring damaging winds, hail, and lighting
Move indoors when storms approach
Stay away from windows
Park vehicles under cover if possible
Bring loose outdoor items inside
Avoid using corded electronics during lighting
Flooding & Flash Flood Safety
Flooding is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths. Just a few inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet or sweep a vehicle away.
Never walk or drive through floodwaters
Turn Around, Don't Drown
Avoid low-water crossings
Move to higher ground immediately
Do not allow children to play in floodwater
Extreme Heat Safety
Central Oklahoma summers can be dangerously hot. Seek medical help immediately if you develop signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Stay hydrated-drink water frequently
Limit outdoor activity during peak heat
Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing
Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning
Check on elderly neighbors and those without cooling
Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
Winter Weather & Ice Storms
Ice storms and freezing temerpatures can create hazardous conditions
Avoid unnecessary travel
Drive slowly and increase following distance
Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle
Use space heaters safely-keep away from flammable materials
Never use grills or generators indoors
Central Oklahoma experiences some of the most extreme weather in the country. Preparing ahead of time and knowing what to do when severe weather strikes can reduce injuries, protect property, and save lives.
Severe Weather is a Fact of Life in Oklahoma - Preparation Makes the Difference
Stay Informed Before Severe Weather
Severe weather often develops quickly. Early warnings give you time to act.
- Monitor trusted weather sources (NOAA Weather Radio, local news, official alerts)
- Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone
- Know the difference between a Watch (be prepared) and a Warning (take action)
- Have a family emergency plan and discuss it regularly
Tornado & High Wind Safety
Tornadoes are the most dangerous severe weather threat in central Oklahoma.
If a Tornado Warning is Issued
Seek shelter immediately
Go to a storm shelter if available
If not, go to a small interior room on the lowest level
Basements are best; otherwise use a bathroom, closet, or hallway
Stay away from windows
Cover your head and neck with your arms, a mattress, or heavy blanket
If You are in a Mobile Home
Leave immediately and go to a nearby sturdy building or storm shelter
Mobile homes offer little protection from high winds
If You Are Driving
Do not try to outrun a tornado
Avoid overpasses
Seek shelter in a sturdy building if possible
As a last resort, lie flat in a low area and protect your head
Severe Thunderstorms & Large Hail
Severe thunderstorms can bring damaging winds, hail, and lighting
Move indoors when storms approach
Stay away from windows
Park vehicles under cover if possible
Bring loose outdoor items inside
Avoid using corded electronics during lighting
Flooding & Flash Flood Safety
Flooding is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths. Just a few inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet or sweep a vehicle away.
Never walk or drive through floodwaters
Turn Around, Don't Drown
Avoid low-water crossings
Move to higher ground immediately
Do not allow children to play in floodwater
Extreme Heat Safety
Central Oklahoma summers can be dangerously hot. Seek medical help immediately if you develop signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Stay hydrated-drink water frequently
Limit outdoor activity during peak heat
Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing
Take breaks in the shade or air conditioning
Check on elderly neighbors and those without cooling
Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
Winter Weather & Ice Storms
Ice storms and freezing temerpatures can create hazardous conditions
Avoid unnecessary travel
Drive slowly and increase following distance
Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle
Use space heaters safely-keep away from flammable materials
Never use grills or generators indoors