Heavy Rains Bring Flooding To The Oklahoma City Area

NewsOn6.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Severe thunderstorms created a treacherous Monday commute for thousands of Oklahoma City motorists.

A number of roads and highway on ramps were closed across the Oklahoma City area Monday morning as rain fell across the metro area.

Parts of northwest Oklahoma County had received more than 6 inches of rain since 3 a.m.

Oklahoma City firefighters responded to motorists stuck in high water throughout the city, and lightning is causing electricity outages.

Oklahoma City firefighters attempting a swift-water rescue have become trapped after their boat became submerged in heavy floodwaters on the city's north side.  Three rescuers were on the boat when it sunk in the fast moving floodwaters.

OKC firefighters say the rescuers and the woman were safely standing on branches in a group of trees. A second boat was deployed to rescue the woman and the trapped firefighters.

Flooding closed roads into and out of the Will Rogers World Airport terminal building. Flights were still able to land and take off, but passengers cannot get to the terminal.

No injuries were reported but drivers were being warned to stay home, Oklahoma Police Lt. Gamille Hardin said.

Portions of interstates 35, 44 and 235 all were closed, as were numerous smaller roads in and out of the metro area.

Tornadoes struck parts of the Oklahoma panhandle Sunday afternoon, including several tornadoes in Beaver County.

Storm trackers Marty Logan and Val Castor followed the severe weather in the northwestern part of the state and captured video of the tornadoes that touched down Sunday.

This same storm could lead to flooding in other parts of the state Monday. Some areas may receive several inches of rain over a short time period. The flood risk appears to be highest in northern and central Oklahoma.

Those who live in flood prone areas should remain weather aware during this time period.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

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