Rescue Teams Search for Victims, Survivors of Oklahoma Tornado

Fortunately, there was at least some warning that a massive tornado was likely to strike in the area of Lone Grove, Oklahoma. Residents were given between 10 and 30 minutes to act, assuming they had access to television or radio where the warnings were being issued. But even though warnings were sent, the odd timing of the tornado still took many people by surprise, even those familiar with the sometimes dangerous weather patterns in this part of Oklahoma.

The typical tornado season in Oklahoma runs from March through June - so a large twister striking this early in the season is extremely rare. Weather records show that only 44 tornadoes have touched down in Oklahoma in the month of February since 1950. And being in the first half of February makes them even more rare.

Many of the 9 confirmed deaths from the tornado occurred in a mobile home park in Lone Grove, which didn't have any tornado shelters on the property. Homes were lifted and thrown, as were vehicles and all other types of property and debris. Authorities are estimating that between 100 and 150 homes in the area were destroyed or are damaged beyond repair. Lone Grove is located roughly 100 miles south of Oklahoma City.