Vance Air Force Base hit by tornado as scary visuals show twister tearing through Oklahoma

ENID, OKLAHOMA: Vance Air Force Base faced direct consequences of a tornado on Thursday, April 23, as scary visuals of the destruction have been going around on the internet.

Earlier on Thursday, a tornado emergency was declared for the base as well as for the southeast of Enid. As per National Weather Service (NWS), at around 8:21 pm CDT, a “confirmed large and destructive tornado” was seen near Vance Air Force Base, traveling east at the speed of 20mph.

Vance Air Force Base asks its personnel to remain at home

A statement was also issued by base officials. They said, “Due to ongoing power and water restoration efforts, Vance Air Force Base is closed until further notice. Only mission-essential personnel required to support critical operations and restoration of base utilities should report for duty.”

“All other personnel should remain at home and monitor official base communication channels for updates and reporting instructions. Those impacted by the tornado can go to the Chisholm Trail Expo Center at 111 West Perdue Ave, Enid, OK, for shelter and additional assistance,” it noted.

The statement also added that the “safety of our Airmen, families, and community remains our top priority. Additional guidance will be provided as conditions improve and normal operations resume.”

Tornado reportedly damaged major structures

Meanwhile, many social media users have posted photos and videos showing the after-effects of the tornado.

A local outlet, KAKE news, shared multiple photos while writing, “Search and rescue is ongoing after a massive tornado struck the city of Enid, Oklahoma, and Vance Air Force Base. We're following coverage from our sister station, KOCO 5 News. Please keep this community in your thoughts.”

An X post said that the “search and rescue operations at Vance AFB are now SUSPENDED due to a major gas leak after a violent tornado scored a direct hit. Major structural damage reported. Casualties confirmed in the area.”

However, the authenticity of the claim has not been verified.

Another post on X stated, “A powerful Tornado hit Vance Air Force Base in Enid Oklahoma causing significant damage There have been reports of destroyed buildings and cars thrown through the air.”

Netizens ask for prayers as tornado hits Oklahoma

A Navy veteran wrote on X, “Praying for everyone at Vance Air Force Base tonight. Hoping as many make it through this as possible.”

One person on Facebook added, “This was sent in by Joshua O’Reilly who was on Vance Air Force Base taking this video. This is the tornado that was just south of Enid, Ok. Praying for the folks in the path of this tornado and for everyone affected by tonight’s severe weather.”