Resources For Those Affected By This Weekend’s Tornadoes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Olivia Porcaro202-225-6165

Over the weekend, 27 tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma, resulting in widespread devastation and heartbreaking loss of life.

My thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by or are grieving as a result of these severe tornadoes. I would also like to thank our first responders who have been on the ground responding so nobly over the past couple of days.

As the Representative for Oklahomans in the fourth district, I know that my place this week is in Oklahoma, not Washington, D.C. - and I am currently on my way back home to assess the damage and ensure my constituents get the necessary assistance they need. However, in the meantime, I want to provide those affected with some immediate resources:

Reporting Damage

It is necessary for the state of Oklahoma to complete damage assessments before the Governor submits his request for disaster declaration to the President. It is very important that Oklahomans submit their damage reports, in order for the state to know where to send teams to evaluate the damage, and, in turn, make the appropriate request to the Executive.

To report damage, click here.

Public Shelters

The American Red Cross has opened a storm shelter in Sulpher, Oklahoma. It is located at Crossway Church. The address is 2108 W. Broadway Avenue. Additionally, the Murray County Sherrif's Office designated the Crossway Church as a reunification center for those who are searching for their missing loved ones.

The Red Cross also opened another shelter in Ardmore at the Christ Community Church, which is located at 2620 Mount Washington Road.

Price Gouging Law

The Emergency Price Stabilization Act is currently in place in the twelve counties that were hit by the storms. This law prohibits unfair price hikes for necessary goods and services during this time of need.

If you experience contractor fraud or more than a ten percent increase for the price of goods and services, call the Oklahoma Attorney General's Consumer Protection Unit at 833-681-1895.

Power Outages

According to Oklahoma Gas and Electric, over 13,000 customers lost power this weekend. In a statement, the company said it will be a "multi-day restoration event."

To report and monitor outages:

• Submit a report online here.
• Text OUT to 32001.
• Call 405-272-9595 (OKC metro) or 800-522-6870 (all other areas).

Insurance Claims

The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is available and ready to help Oklahomans with any difficulties they are experiencing with their insurance claims. Visit OID's website here or call them at 800-522-0071.

Mass Care

Oklahoma Southern Baptist Relief has two chainsaw teams in Morris and a mass feeding kitchen on the way to Sulpher to provide meals.

Critical Incident Stress Management-trained chaplains are also available for those affected, as well as first responders.

The Salvation Army is giving out meals to first responders, as well as determining the need for clean-up kits and other critical supplies.

Non-Emergency Information

For Oklahomans that need non-emergency or health and human service information, dial 2-1-1 from your phone. 2-1-1 services are available 24 hours a day.