At least one dead in Oklahoma flooding as millions in region face severe weather risks

Severe weather in southwest Oklahoma has led to one fatality due to flash flooding, prompting authorities to advise people to avoid driving on flooded roads. The Lawton Police Department disclosed that emergency responders observed a vehicle entering standing water, but were unable to reach the submerged vehicle safely. The victim’s identity remains undisclosed as investigations are ongoing. Governor Kevin Stitt expressed gratitude towards the first responders for their efforts in conducting water rescues amid the heavy rainfall. Officials in Lawton reported a decrease in water levels on Sunday afternoon, while in Walters, Cotton County Emergency Management urged residents to evacuate flood-prone areas. The floodwaters are expected to rise until mid-afternoon Sunday, with emergency management working to provide more sand and sandbags to affected residents.

Meanwhile, critical fire weather conditions persist across the Southwest and the Rockies due to strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. Millions of people in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and West Texas are under alert. Further severe weather risks extend from Montana to Texas, with storms capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, and potential tornadoes overnight Sunday. On Monday, severe weather is forecasted for 36 million people from Texas to Michigan, including cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, and Oklahoma City. The most severe storms are expected late afternoon into the night, with the threat of intense tornadoes, large hail, and strong winds. Localized flash flooding is also possible in the central U.S.

The severe weather risk is expected to diminish by Tuesday as storms move towards New York, putting 37 million people, including those in Indianapolis, Oklahoma City, and Cleveland, at a slight risk of severe weather. As the front moves east, isolated strong to severe thunderstorms may occur with strong winds, hail, and an occasional tornado. Later in the week, a moderate risk of severe weather is anticipated in parts of the Upper Midwest.