SITUATION:
On March 25, a large storm system and resulting tornadoes, high winds and hail impacted several mid-western states. The storm system stretched from northwest Texas, through Oklahoma and as far east as western Tennessee. Wind and hail damage was reported in Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Illinois and Tennessee. Tornadoes were reported in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Missouri. A total of seven tornadoes are confirmed in the three states.
Oklahoma was the hardest hit state, and the governor has declared a State of Emergency for 25 counties. Sand Springs, a suburb of Tulsa was severely impacted. There was one fatality, numerous injuries and numerous homes destroyed. The River Oaks and River West Mobile Home Park was particularly hard hit. Statewide there were 26 persons injured (99 hospitalized) and 60 homes severely damaged or destroyed. The Oklahoma City was also the scene of severe damage, with the roof torn off an elementary school and roof damage to many businesses and homes.
In all the storm system caused the loss of power to 80,000 customers in the 8 states impacted, most has now been restored.
CWS RESPONSE:
CWS disaster response specialists are in contact with state, regional and local Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, FEMA, CWS member comionsmun and other agencies to determine where CWS help may be needed.
CWS will provide material resources, such as CWS Emergency Cleanup Buckets, Baby Care Kits, Hygiene Kits and Blankets, if requested.
HOW TO HELP
Financial contributions to support CWS emergency response efforts may made online or may be sent to your denomination or to Church World Service, P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN 46515.
During any disaster the best help that an individual can provide is cash.
If you want to provide useful material assistance, help keep CWS warehouses stocked with CWS Emergency Cleanup Buckets, Hygiene Kits, Baby Care Kits and School Kits. Click here for instructions: www.cwsglobal.org/get-involved/kits. If you have other supplies that you think may be of help, contact a CWS emergency response specialist to see whether the materials can be used and, if so, where.
Church World Service is a member of the ACT Alliance, a global coalition of churches and agencies engaged in development, humanitarian assistance and advocacy.