Oklahoma, Nov 04, (V7N) - Severe storms and tornadoes swept through Oklahoma over the weekend, causing significant damage and injuries. At least five people were reported injured as powerful winds toppled trees and power lines, leaving a path of destruction across the state.
 
The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management reported that 14 homes were damaged, and debris littered many areas. In Tulsa County, approximately 100 miles northeast of Oklahoma City, lightning strikes ignited a house fire. Firefighters rescued two individuals trapped in overturned mobile homes, while five people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
 
By Sunday morning, nearly 82,000 residents were without power due to downed lines and damaged infrastructure. The storms, which originated in western Texas, intensified as they moved into Oklahoma, prompting tornado and flash flood warnings.
 
The National Weather Service confirmed at least three tornadoes touched down in Oklahoma on Saturday, with one reportedly causing significant damage to Newcastle Elementary School, where videos showed the roof torn off. Additional damage was reported in Valley Brook, southeast of Oklahoma City.
 
As torrential rains raised flash flood risks, fire officials advised residents in the Oklahoma City metro area to seek higher ground. A flood warning remained in effect for the North Canadian River, which was expected to crest at nearly 18 feet later in the day.
 
Despite a brief respite, the National Weather Service cautioned residents not to let their guard down, as more severe thunderstorms were anticipated. Winds could reach up to 80 mph, with heavy rainfall expected to continue affecting eastern and central Oklahoma, northern Arkansas, and southern Missouri through Monday. The risk of damaging winds may persist into Election Day on Tuesday.
 
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