Flash flooding in southwest Oklahoma has led to at least one confirmed death, with authorities urging caution as severe weather warnings persist. The Lawton Police Department reported a vehicle submerged in standing water; emergency responders were unable to reach it safely. The investigation into the fatality is ongoing, and the identity of the victim remains undisclosed. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt praised first responders for their efforts in conducting water rescues, imploring residents to avoid driving through flooded roads and to stay vigilant regarding weather conditions.
As water levels began to recede in certain areas by Sunday afternoon, Cotton County Emergency Management in Walters issued a public notice, advising residents to evacuate flood-prone zones due to the anticipated rise in floodwaters. Authorities are also working to provide sandbags to affected residents. Beyond Oklahoma, fire weather conditions remain critical across the Southwest and Rockies, with around 7 million people in Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and west Texas facing high fire risks due to high winds and dry conditions.
Severe weather threats extend from Montana to Texas, with storms set to produce winds reaching 70 mph, large hail, and possible tornadoes overnight. On Monday, a broad area from Texas to Michigan, including major cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, and Oklahoma City, will be under severe weather alerts. The most intense storms are expected in the late afternoon and continue into the night, potentially bringing tornadoes, large hail, and severe winds. As the weather system moves eastward, risks will diminish by Tuesday but will still affect metropolitan areas like Indianapolis and Cleveland, with potential for isolated severe thunderstorms continuing throughout the week.
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