Tornadoes Strike Northern Oklahoma, Causing Widespread Damage and Injuries
On Thursday, April 23, 2026, multiple tornadoes were confirmed in Oklahoma after a stretch of severe storms tore across the northern border of the state, leaving a path of damaged homes and causing power outages. According to the National Weather Service, one tornado appeared near the town of Braman around 7:30 p.m. Local time on April 23. The tornado traveled toward Braman in Kay County near the Kansas border on Interstate 35. The weather service later confirmed another tornado had formed at 8:40 p.m. Local time on the southeastern side of Enid, Oklahoma.
KOCO-TV, citing the Garfield County emergency manager, reported that at least 10 people were injured after tornadoes hit the area. Emergency crews were conducting search and rescue operations in Garfield County after a tornado caused significant damage, including heavily impacting the Gray Ridge neighborhood and Vance Air Force Base.
The National Weather Service is assessing the damage and has indicated that the tornado impacting Enid is a preliminary EF3 tornado with 165 mile per hour winds. Officials noted it could be larger, and damage assessments are ongoing.
As Friday dawned on northern Oklahoma, emergency officials in Garfield County and Enid have counted 40 homes so far that were damaged in the powerful tornado that sideswiped the city and too caused damage at Vance Air Force Base.
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt said he spoke with Enid officials and that the governor’s office will help the city assess damage and determine what resources are needed. He urged residents to stay weather aware, follow local warnings, and take shelter immediately when directed.
Mike Honigsberg, the former emergency management director of Enid, told KOCO-TV that the south side of the city had been leveled but noted that the full extent of the damage may not be known until April 24.
Key Takeaways
- At least 10 people were injured in Garfield County, Oklahoma, following tornadoes on April 23, 2026.
- The tornado that hit Enid is preliminarily rated as an EF3 with 165 mph winds.
- The Gray Ridge neighborhood and Vance Air Force Base sustained significant damage.
- Approximately 40 homes have been counted as damaged in Enid as of April 24, 2026.
- Emergency crews conducted search and rescue operations, with reports of people trapped inside homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the tornadoes in northern Oklahoma?
The tornadoes were part of a stretch of severe storms that tore across the northern border of Oklahoma on April 23, 2026.
Where was the most significant damage reported?
The most significant damage was reported in the Gray Ridge neighborhood of Enid and at Vance Air Force Base.
How many people were injured in the tornadoes?
At least 10 people were injured, according to the Garfield County emergency manager as reported by KOCO-TV.
What is the current status of damage assessments?
Damage assessments are ongoing, with the National Weather Service confirming the Enid tornado as a preliminary EF3. Officials noted the full extent of damage may not be known until further assessments are completed.
What assistance is being provided to affected areas?
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt has pledged state assistance to help Enid assess damage and determine needed resources.