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Tornadoes spotted in Oklahoma as dangerous storms move across Great Plains

Tornadoes and severe storms struck rural Oklahoma and parts of Kansas on Monday evening, creating life-threatening conditions and leaving a path of destruction. The National Weather Service issued a rare high-risk weather warning for the region, the first of its kind in Oklahoma in five years. At least four tornadoes were spotted in north central Oklahoma, including one near Tulsa and others near smaller towns like Okeene and Covington. Strong winds, large hail, and intense rainfall accompanied the storms, and a tornado emergency alert was issued for several towns. Oklahoma and Kansas faced the possibility of strong twisters staying on the ground for many miles. Oklahoma's emergency response center was activated, and schools and workplaces closed early to prioritize safety. The dangerous weather will continue moving eastward, affecting cities such as Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri, and potentially causing more severe weather in the eastern and southern U.S. throughout the week.