Severe Weather Causes Two Evacuations At Will Rogers World Airport

Severe weather and tornadoes caused two terminal evacuations at Will Rogers World Airport, Wednesday night.

The first evacuation occurred around 5:10 p.m. and lasted for 40 minutes. The second evacuation occurred at 6:55 p.m. and lasted for nearly three hours.

Several hundred people took shelter in the airport's pedestrian tunnel during both evacuations.

Flash flooding on Terminal Drive and Air Cargo Road stranded several motorists.

The high water also prevented people from leaving the terminal for several hours. The water has subsided and traffic is once again moving on those roadways. No injuries were reported.

During the second evacuation, the airport was closed to all inbound and outbound air traffic. Once the all clear was given, airport staff conducted an airfield assessment and reopened the airport at 9:44pm.

All remaining departures for the evening have been canceled along with numerous arrivals. Those who might be coming to the airport to pick someone up are advised to check on the flight before coming.

Several early morning flights have also been canceled or delayed, however, several of the airlines will be bringing in extra aircraft in the morning to accommodate passengers and to get WRWA operations back to normal. All travelers should check with their airline before coming to the airport.

The terminal building sustained water damage in several areas. The airport is still assessing other damage that may have occurred to the building and other property.