Oklahoma City is working to assess damage from Sunday’s storms, with the Utilities Department leading the recovery efforts. According to officials, a decision on the mode of storm debris collection awaits, hinging on the completed assessment due this Friday, which promises revelations about the anticipated "heavily impacted areas" and the subsequent cleanup game plan.
While the full extent of the damage remains unclear, areas around Southeast 89th Street and South Sooner Road, as well as Southeast 44th Street and South Triple X Road, are expected to be the hardest hit, according to a city news release. Despite the storm's impact, regular bulky waste collection continues as usual. Residents in less affected areas are reminded to follow their regular collection dates and volume limits.
Businesses and organizations are not eligible for the City’s curbside bulky waste collection and must arrange their own debris removal, according to city news release. Residents in designated special collection areas are required to separate tree limbs, branches, and wooden fencing from regular waste. The city has made it clear that regular waste will not be collected in these areas.
Utilities Director Chris Browning stated "Unlike storms we've seen in the recent past, we aren’t expecting this one to receive FEMA-level designation, which means Federal assistance won’t be available"; Browning's voice echoes a certain resolve pervaded by constraint, reported by the city's announcement. With no federal aid available, storm-affected residents can find some relief in the city’s offers of water meter checks and temporary trash carts for spoiled perishables, though more extensive debris assistance is not being provided.
Homeowners must prepare by cutting fallen branches into 10-foot sections and stacking them carefully, making sure not to block mailboxes or utility poles. Those in need of Utilities Customer Service can find a helpline available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at (405) 297-2833, a connection offering guidance in a time of tumultuous recovery.
