Oklahoma Tornado Outbreak Leaves Four Confirmed Twisters Across Central Counties as Damage Surveys Continue

OKLAHOMA — Four tornadoes have been confirmed across central Oklahoma following a round of early-morning severe storms on January 8, 2026, according to preliminary National Weather Service damage surveys. The tornadoes affected areas near Purcell, Shawnee, Shawnee Twin Lakes, and Lake Thunderbird, with investigations still ongoing into additional damage paths.

Four Tornadoes Confirmed Across Central Oklahoma

Weather officials confirmed three EF1 tornadoes and one EF0 tornado across multiple counties in central Oklahoma. Each tornado occurred within a short time window during the morning hours as a strong storm system moved through the region.

Based on survey data available as of 9 p.m. January 8, the confirmed tornadoes include:

• Purcell area (McClain County)
  • EF1 tornado
  • Time: 7:24–7:34 a.m.
  • Path length: 9 miles
• Lake Thunderbird area (Cleveland County)
  • EF0 tornado
  • Time: 7:44–7:46 a.m.
  • Path length: 1.8 miles
• Near Shawnee Twin Lakes (Pottawatomie County)
  • EF1 tornado
  • Time: 7:52–7:57 a.m.
  • Path length: 4 miles
• Northeast of Shawnee (Pottawatomie County)
  • EF1 tornado
  • Time: 8:06–8:09 a.m.
  • Path length: 2.6 miles

What the Damage Surveys Show So Far

Survey teams identified tree damage, power line impacts, and structural damage consistent with EF0–EF1 intensity tornadoes. The strongest tornado, near Purcell, carved the longest track of the morning at approximately nine miles, cutting across rural and semi-developed areas.

The Lake Thunderbird tornado, while weaker, was still clearly identifiable through convergent tree fall patterns and localized wind damage.

Officials emphasized that survey work is still underway, and final ratings or additional tornado confirmations remain possible as crews continue to inspect hard-to-reach areas.

Storm Setup Behind the Tornadoes

The tornadoes developed within a fast-moving storm system that produced strong wind shear and embedded rotating storms during the early morning hours. While the overall outbreak remained relatively limited in strength, the setup was sufficient to support brief but damaging tornadoes across central Oklahoma.

Meteorologists noted that the timing — just after sunrise — added to the danger, as many residents were still indoors and unaware of rapidly changing conditions.

What Happens Next

The National Weather Service will continue analyzing damage paths over the coming days. If additional tornadoes are identified, updated survey results and revised totals will be released.

Residents in affected areas are encouraged to document damage, remain cautious around downed power lines, and monitor local emergency updates.

Have photos, videos, or damage reports from the storms in your area? Share your experience and stay connected with ongoing severe weather coverage at WaldronNews.com.