Norman, OK – On the evening of July 4, 2026, a line of severe thunderstorms moved across central and northeastern Oklahoma, producing straight-line winds exceeding 90 mph, heavy rainfall, localized flooding, hail, and widespread power outages.
The most significant impacts occurred in Cleveland County, particularly in Norman, where powerful winds downed trees, damaged homes, toppled power poles, and caused extensive utility outages. Interstate 35 was temporarily closed due to storm debris and damage. At the peak of the event, nearly 100,000 Oklahomans lost electrical service, with Cleveland County experiencing the largest concentration of outages.
In the days following the storm, The Salvation Army provided meals to the impacted communities. “Overall, we had a fantastic day of community engagement,” reported Lt. Victor Estudiante. “All the areas we served, aside from Westwood, were over 36 hours without power and counting. We had so many people who thanked us, took photos, and posted to socials. We couldn’t have done this without the amazing support and donation of ready to eat sandwiches, fruit cups, and salads from Sprouts and snacks from Crest Foods.”
The Salvation Army is continuing to assess the situation and will set up a mobile kitchen if further meal service is requested.
