SHAWNEE, Okla. — As the sun comes up Thursday morning, 2 News Oklahoma is learning more about the storms and tornadoes that ripped through central Oklahoma Wednesday night.
At 1:45 p.m. Thursday, Governor Kevin Stitt issued a State of Emergency Declaration in five counties.
Today, after touring the damage in Cole and Shawnee, I declared a State of Emergency in five counties.
— Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) April 20, 2023
In times like this, Oklahomans show resilience, community, and courage— the Oklahoma Standard. pic.twitter.com/UkvgWOGAzm
Three killed in Cole
The McClain County Sheriff's Office confirmed three people died as a result of the tornado in Cole, that's just north of Norman. According to Oklahoma Highway Patrol and McClain County deputies, there are hundreds of first responders searching homes in Cole. Officials say there are injuries, but how many people are affected is still unknown.
Damage across Shawnee
2 News Oklahoma crews are on the scene in Shawnee. There is significant damage on Kickapoo Street off of I-40. Several streets and on-ramps are shut down, with police patrolling the area. Governor Kevin Stitt toured damage on Thursday morning.
Shawnee Public Schools announced it will be closed again Friday, April 21.
SEE MORE: PHOTOS FROM DAMAGE IN SHAWNEE
Oklahoma Baptist University
OBU President Heath Thomas spoke with press Thursday morning about the damage seen on campus. Thomas said it is the worst natural disaster seen in the university's 113-year history. He said there are luckily no injuries and no deaths reported on campus.
"Where I'm from, that's kind of hallelujah territory," Thomas said.
The tornado impacted every building on campus. Thomas said structural engineers are currently working to assess how much damage was actually done.
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