Floods in Oklahoma: One dead and millions affected in the Southern U.S.
Heavy rains caused flooding in Oklahoma and Texas, killing one man and putting more than 16 million people in the region on alert.
The intense rains lashing the southern United States left one person dead in Oklahoma on Wednesday, when a man was swept away by floodwaters while trying to cross a flooded road. The weather phenomenon primarily affected Oklahoma and Texas, where millions of people are under flood warnings.
The victim was identified in Pottawatomie County. According to authorities, his vehicle was swept away by the current, and although a sheriff's deputy attempted to rescue him, he was unable to arrive in time. The incident occurred as a combination of stationary fronts brought torrential rains to several states in the south-central United States.
Areas under surveillance for rain and flooding
The National Weather Service reported that approximately 16 million people remained under flood warnings in Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri. In places like Wichita Falls, Texas, and Lawton, Oklahoma, accumulated rainfall of up to nearly 3 inches was recorded. The rains affected roads and residential areas, causing traffic disruptions and risks for residents.
Additionally, the threat of tornadoes extended from eastern Texas to northern Louisiana and much of Arkansas. In Skiatook, Oklahoma, authorities used airboats to patrol areas flooded by the rising Bird Creek and prepare for possible rescues.
Forecast and evolution of weather conditions
Although the heaviest rainfall was concentrated in southeastern Oklahoma Wednesday afternoon, river levels are expected to continue rising through Thursday. Specific flood watches, including one for Rowlett Creek, have been issued in the Dallas metropolitan area through Thursday morning.
Precipitation is forecast to ease in the mid-south on Thursday, but the risk of thunderstorms will shift to other areas. The Mississippi Valley, Ohio, and Tennessee regions will be next in line to experience severe weather, the National Weather Service warned.
