Convoy Responds to Tornado Outbreak in Oklahoma, Nebraska & Iowa
April 30, 2024 | 4:13 p.m.
Convoy of Hope distributed relief supplies to more than 2,300 people in Oklahoma as communities began cleaning up after the deadly tornadoes last weekend. More than 60 volunteers loaded trucks and trailers and took essential provisions to families in Sulphur, Ardmore, Dixon, and Marietta.
More resources — including tarps, totes, water, and hygiene items — were distributed throughout affected neighborhoods. Additional loads are en route.
Convoy is also providing essential relief in Nebraska and Iowa. So far, more than 4,700 people in the area have received supplies to help them start the recovery process and feed their families.
April 29, 2024 | 3:33 p.m.
The storms in Oklahoma killed at least four people and injured more than 100.
Communities in Nebraska, Iowa, and Oklahoma are still recovering in the wake of the multiday tornado outbreak this weekend. Convoy of Hope is on the ground in all three states, distributing relief supplies to people in need.
The National Weather Service has rated the tornadoes that swept through the state Saturday night as at least EF3s, meaning they produced winds up to 165 mph. These ratings can increase upon further investigation of the damage.
“You just can’t believe the destruction,” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt told the Associated Press during a visit to the hard-hit town of Sulphur. “It seems like every business downtown has been destroyed.”
In Marietta, Oklahoma, a tornado flattened the local grocery store, Homeland Grocery & Pharmacy. One of the town’s biggest needs is food, so a load of meals and nonperishable food items is en route to the affected area to be distributed tomorrow.
Photos above: Before and after images of the Homeland Grocery & Pharmacy in Marietta, Oklahoma, show the devastation left by the strong tornado Saturday night.
“This area is completely devastated,” said Convoy’s Director of United States Disaster Services Eric Gordon, who is on the ground in Oklahoma.
Convoy of Hope remains committed to providing help to these communities as they recover.
April 28, 2024 | 1:31 p.m.
Last night, multiple large and extremely dangerous tornadoes tore through parts of Oklahoma, leaving a trail of destruction and at least three people dead. Convoy of Hope has several loads of essential supplies — including food, water, sports drinks, rakes, totes, tarps, hygiene kits, and more — en route to the hard-hit areas of Sulphur and Ardmore.
Distributions are still taking place in Nebraska and Iowa as communities recover from Friday night’s severe weather.
April 27, 2024 | 12:24 p.m.
Convoy of Hope teams are on the ground in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa, serving those reeling from the losses they suffered in yesterday’s tornado outbreak. Multiple truckloads of food, water, and relief supplies left Convoy’s World Distribution Center this morning headed for the area.
“Thank you for your partnership that allows Convoy to be ready,” said Convoy of Hope National Spokesperson Ethan Forhetz. “And just know, we are ready for the next round of storms to hit, as well.”
Millions of people are under severe weather threats this weekend as storm systems continue to develop. Convoy of Hope is ready to expand its response and serve even more survivors.
April 26, 2024 | 10:08 p.m.
Convoy of Hope is responding to the devastating tornadoes that tore across parts of eastern Nebraska tonight as a multiday severe thunderstorm ramped up in the central United States. Convoy team members and relief supplies will leave for the impacted area early tomorrow morning.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado emergency — the strongest type of tornado warning, meaning a life-threatening tornado is confirmed — as a severe storm tracked west of Omaha, Nebraska. The tornado plowed through farmland and suburban Omaha, damaging hundreds of homes and buildings. Injuries have been reported, and fatalities are still unknown.
As warm air from the Gulf of Mexico flows into the central U.S. this time of year, severe storms are expected, but this makes them no less devastating. Convoy is prepared to bring relief wherever and whenever a storm hits.
