An EF-1 tornado struck Ada, Oklahoma, early on March 4, 2025, causing significant damage, displacing families, and injuring at least one person. The tornado, reported by the National Weather Service, touched down at 5:11 AM and was estimated to reach wind speeds of 100-105 mph over its path of approximately 3.7 miles. Local officials have confirmed extensive damage throughout the city, the most affected area being near East Central University.
According to Ada city officials, one injury has been reported, and 24 families have been displaced due to the storm's ferocity. The extent of the injured person’s condition has not been made public, but the Red Cross has been notified, highlighting the urgent need for assistance. Ada's Main Street is closed, and law enforcement has been tasked with increased patrols to maintain safety and order as cleanup efforts begin.
The impact of the tornado was felt deeply across the area, with significant structural damage reported. Willard Elementary School, located on East Ninth Street, suffered severe roof damage, leading the Ada Public Schools to cancel classes for the day. East Central University also closed its doors as crews began repairs. Emergency workers are on the scene assessing the damage to buildings, power lines, and gas lines throughout the city.
Video footage captured the devastation, with some mobile homes, utility poles, and numerous trees left damaged. Officials stated, "The tornado was on the ground for about four minutes," and had initially developed on the west side of Ada, making its way northeast before dissipaging near Arlington Center.
The storms associated with this tornado have resulted in severe weather advisories across central Oklahoma, moving eastward toward Arkansas. With high winds following the storms, there remain concerns for additional damage as more than 22,500 customers throughout the state currently find themselves without power.
The situation has been particularly challenging for residents in Ada. Reports indicate some individuals were stuck inside their homes at Broadway Ave. and NE Richardson Loop during the height of the storm. Emergency operations are underway, with shelters set up at the Agraplex southwest of the airport to provide refuge for those displaced.
Further north, heavy damage was also reported from Allen, Oklahoma, where structural assessments revealed multiple damaged buildings, including the collapse of the Union Valley Fire Department’s structure. The Main Street Salvation Army building was also severely affected. Officials are focusing on restoring power and access to affected areas, but these efforts may take days to complete with the breadth of the damage observed.
One resident, recounting the terrifying moments of the tornado's passage, said, "It felt like ages" as her home was devastated. With emergency services working tirelessly, city officials stress the importance of safety precautions for those who have been impacted and advise them to stay vigilant as storms continue to threaten the region.
The National Weather Service has been monitoring the situation closely, highlighting the severe thunderstorm risks and potential for more tornadoes across the area as weather conditions remain unstable. Residents are encouraged to follow local news updates and adhere to any emergency alerts issued by officials.
Ada, located roughly 85 miles southeast of Oklahoma City, has faced challenges before, but the community's resilience will be tested as recovery efforts commence. The total population, noted at over 16,000 during the last census, is coming together to support one another during this significant crisis.
The rapid response from emergency personnel and city officials showcases the community’s commitment to safety and recovery. "We are assessing damage and working to get roads open," stated emergency responders currently on the ground assisting with the efforts. Their determination highlights the collaborative spirit of Ada's residents as they rally together to rebuild following the devastation of the early morning tornado.