On Friday, March 14, 2025, Cordell experienced severe windstorms that caused significant damage throughout the town. Wind gusts exceeding 70 mph led to the collapse of a building on the town square, scattering debris around the Washita County Courthouse. The intense winds also resulted in roof and exterior damage to several properties, with numerous trees broken. The sky took on a hazy brown-orange hue due to the substantial amount of dust and dirt carried by the high winds, reducing visibility and creating hazardous cond itions.
In response to the hazardous conditions, Mayor Phil Kliewer proactively ordered a town-wide power shutdown, with exceptions made for emergency services. This precaution aimed to prevent potential fires, as there had been reports of transformers arcing electricity amid the extreme weather con ditions.
An electrical fire ignited tree branches on 4th Street when aiming to restore power once the winds had begun to die down. Witnesses reported that the Cordell Fire Department was contacted and responded promptly, efficiently extinguishing the blaze before it could cause further damage.
City workers and electricians worked tirelessly to restore power, clear debris, and ensure the community’s safety after the damaging windstorm. The Washita County branch of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation assisted with the cleanup of debris, fallen tree limbs, and other hazards Friday evening, working to restore safe travel conditions in the area.