EF2 Tornado — Caddo, Oklahoma

2009-05-13 · near Gracemont, Caddo, Oklahoma

Event narrative

The tornado developed southeast of Gracemont and moved south along and just east of Highway 8/281 toward the east side of Anadarko. Hundreds of trees, power lines/poles, and fences were destroyed along its path, with numerous homes, barns, and outbuildings receiving significant roof and siding damage. More significant damage occurred on the northeast and east sides of Anadarko, with homes sustaining major damage along Country Club Road. The tornadic winds also damaged the roof and walls of a strip mall. The tornado finally lifted 1.5 to 2 miles southeast of Anadarko. In all, monetary damages were estimated at $50 million, which covered both the tornado damage and damage associated with the rear flank downdraft.

Wider weather episode

A cold front moved south into Oklahoma during the evening of the 13th and early on the 14th. Widespread thunderstorms developed over much of the eastern two thirds of Oklahoma. Deep moisture and favorable atmospheric conditions allowed for thunderstorms to become severe along and south of the cold. A strong cap over western Oklahoma didn't allow for much development, although thunderstorms were able to develop west during the late evening hours. All forms of severe weather developed as several supercell thunderstorms developed. Hail up to baseball size, wind gusts over 60 mph, and four tornadoes were reported as the evening progressed. Damage was reported, especially with the tornadoes. The worst damage was reported with a tornado that moved from Gracemont to near Anadarko. Luckily, no injuries were reported with any of the damage.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (35.1638, -98.2432)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 175481. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.