A weekend of relentless rain has left much of Okmulgee County dealing with the aftermath of widespread flooding, multiple road closures and dangerous driving conditions. Okmulgee County Emergency Management (OCEM) Director Jeffrey Moore is asking residents to remain cautious and to report any property damage using the official online form.
“This damage-reporting tool isn’t just for record-keeping,” Moore stated. “Each individual report helps local and state emergency managers coordinate better response and recovery efforts. It could also determine what types of federal or state assistance might become available to impacted residents.”
The heavy rains – ranging from 1.5 to over 4 inches depending on location – caused flash flooding in numerous low-lying areas. OCEM monitored the situation closely throughout Friday and Saturday, responding to multiple severe weather alerts and mobilizing resources for public safety.
— Flood Dangers & Tragedy in Tulsa County The weekend also brought tragedy. On Saturday evening, emergency responders were called to the scene near Leonard, after a family SUV was swept away by fast-moving floodwaters on private property. A 47-year-old woman and her 7-year-old daughter were swept away after their vehicle became submerged. Despite swift action and coordination among more than 50 responders from agencies across several counties including the Muscogee Nation, rescue efforts were called off at nightfall due to poor visibility and hazardous terrain.
The father and another child managed to escape the vehicle and reach safety, but the conditions were too severe for the others. Their bodies were recovered Monday by rescue teams.
Officials urge residents to never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. As little as six inches of water can cause a vehicle to stall, and just 12 inches can carry it away.
— Road Closures & Local Challenges
As of Sunday evening, the following roads remained closed due to washouts and high water:
• Bixby Road from Ferguson Road to north county line
• 210 & Celia Berry Hill Road – washed out
• Arbeka Road north of Hwy 266
• Cedar east of Hwy 75
• Coalton Bottoms OCEM is also addressing equipment shortages discovered during the response, including a need for more barricades and signage to better block impassable roads. The agency is exploring the purchase of an enclosed trailer to assist with future emergency deployments.
— Shelter & Siren Issues in Morris
In Morris, concerns have been raised after the designated school storm shelter was not opened during a tornado warning. Furthermore, tornado sirens failed to activate, despite emergency signals being sent from two separate locations. OCEM is currently investigating the issue and offering to provide a volunteer to assist school personnel during future emergencies.
— How to Report Damage
Residents are encouraged to report any storm or flood-related damages to homes, businesses, or agricultural properties using this form: [https://tinyurl. com/5ysuutd7](https://tinyurl.com/5ysuutd7). Submissions help emergency managers assess the scale of the event and advocate for possible disaster aid.
For non-emergency needs, residents can dial 2-1-1 to access disaster relief and human services. Emergency calls should still be directed to 9-1-1.
Okmulgee County Emergency Management continues to monitor weather conditions for the upcoming days into next week and will release further updates as they become available. Moore thanked local fire departments, law enforcement and volunteers who responded throughout the weekend: “We are grateful for the rapid, coordinated efforts of so many first responders. Their dedication saved lives.”
