One Dead After Severe Storm Strikes Pawnee Lake With High Winds

Severe storms impacted Pawnee Lake, claiming one life and causing significant damage. Power restoration efforts are ongoing, with the community working toward recovery.

Friday, September 20th 2024, 11:00 am

By: Jonathan Polasek

PAWNEE, Okla. -

The storms that moved through the Pawnee Lake area Thursday night had winds between 70 and 75 miles per hour.

Pawnee County Sheriff Darrin Varnell confirms at least one person died as a result of this storm.

That victim was in a travel trailer when the storm hit and has not yet been identified.

Sheriff Varnell said the storm downed power lines, trees, and caused travel trailers to flip. He described what happened Thursday night as 'tragic'.

"Come back out here this morning and start picking stuff up and assess the damage," said Larry Kling, a resident of the area. "Try to get things rebuilt and get another start next year. You just can't quit; you gotta go, 'That's Oklahoma.'"

Electric crews worked overnight to help get power on to as many customers as possible.

First responders are asking for people to stay in their homes for now if they can.

The Pawnee Nation Police Department is open to anyone affected by the storm.