Tuesday morning storms cause buildings to collapse in Ada, school closures

UPDATE: East Central University Campus in Ada, as well as Ada Public Schools, will remain closed through Wednesday, Mar. 5, due to widespread power outages and damage.

A tornado with an estimated EF1 strength caused widespread damage along a nearly 5-mile path through downtown Ada.

Several buildings were damaged, including a tire shop that lost its roof entirely, a dispensary with parts of its roof strewn across the ground, and an elementary school that sustained significant damage.

Three structures, including two homes and the Union Valley Fire Department, were deemed total losses.

Some residents were ordered to evacuate due to gas leaks, and many homes remain unsafe to occupy. Crews are working to restore power as outages persist across the area.

Hundreds of community members, including East Central University’s football team, are assisting with cleanup efforts, clearing streets and debris. Emergency management officials are providing aid to displaced residents.

One injury has been reported, with no fatalities. Authorities encourage those in need of assistance to contact local emergency management or the Red Cross.