2 killed in Mayes County tornado, EF-3 damage found near Claremore

UPDATE (5/27 : 4:30 p.m.) — According to Claremore City Manager John Feary, approximately 65% of power has been restored to the Claremore area.

“The hardest hit areas are still without power, but crews are working around the clock to repair damage,” said Feary. “We are grateful for the support of public power communities who responded to a call for mutual aid. GRDA, Edmond, Miami, Skiatook, Stillwater, Tahlequah, Pryor and the City of Siloam Springs, Arkansas are members of the Municipal Electric Systems of Oklahoma (MESO) and crucial in supporting municipal electric systems during times of need.”

The curfew in Claremore has been extended through June 1 to allow emergency responders to continue repair and recovery efforts.

City and county officials request that residents stack green waste debris in lengths of 10 feet or less next to the road for cleanup. The City asks you to ensure the debris is away from gas and water meters. There is still no public disposal site available at this time.

Starting Tuesday, the City of Claremore will open its community center at 2301 N Sioux Ave as a cooling station and recreational space for residents.

At least two people were killed when a tornado hit Mayes County Saturday night, Mayes County Emergency Management officials confirmed to KRMG.

We’re told several people were taken to the hospital, some with severe injuries. It appears the hardest hit area in Mayes County is west of Pryor.

The tornado first caused damage in Claremore shortly after 11pm.

Multiple structures were damaged and Claremore police said there was extensive damage to trees and power lines. Police urged people to stay away from the city as cleanup efforts began.

Several areas are still without power after the storm.

KRMG’s Russell Mills reported the smell of natural gas and power lines down in several areas of Claremore.

The City of Claremore reported 23 storm-related injuries with 19 transported to area hospitals and three with possible life-threatening injuries. The city said there are no confirmed fatalities in Claremore.

The National Weather Service in Tulsa said survey crews found EF-3 damage east of Claremore north of Highway 20.

The American Red Cross opened a shelter in Claremore for those affected by severe weather.

Claremore

Memorial Heights Baptist Church

1500 W Will Rogers Blvd.

Claremore, OK 74017

Developing story, check back for updates

[PHOTOS: Claremore Tornado Damage]

The Tulsa Fire Department responded to Claremore to provide assistance Sunday morning.

See their photos here