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Newcastle, Oklahoma has been affected by several significant tornadoes, including the May 3, 1999 F5, the May 20, 2013 EF5, and an EF1 that damaged Newcastle Elementary in November 2024. Sprague’s Backhoe installs above-ground and below-ground storm shelters in Newcastle that are designed to meet or exceed FEMA safe room guidelines.
Newcastle residents don’t have to look far back in history to understand the importance of tornado preparedness. The city and surrounding McClain County have experienced everything from smaller tornadoes to some of the most significant tornadoes in Oklahoma history.
Three events in particular stand out: May 3, 1999, May 20, 2013, and November 3, 2024. Each was very different, but together they are a good reminder that tornado preparedness in Newcastle isn’t limited to one type of storm or even one time of year.
May 3, 1999: The Bridge Creek-Moore F5 Tornado
The May 3, 1999 tornado is one of the most remembered tornadoes in Oklahoma history. The F5 tornado traveled approximately 37 miles through portions of Grady, McClain, Cleveland, and Oklahoma counties, affecting Bridge Creek, northern Newcastle, southwest Oklahoma City, Moore, Del City, and Midwest City.
The tornado moved northeast into McClain County and crossed through the northern portion of Newcastle. According to the National Weather Service, two areas of F4 damage were documented in McClain County near Newcastle. Thirty-eight homes and two businesses were destroyed in McClain County, with another 40 homes damaged.
Mobile Doppler radar also measured winds around 301 mph during the tornado near Bridge Creek. That measurement became one of the most widely known details associated with the storm, but it was a radar measurement above ground rather than a direct measurement of wind at a Newcastle home.
The tornado caused 36 fatalities and hundreds of injuries along its entire path.
May 20, 2013: The Newcastle-Moore EF5 Tornado
Fourteen years later, Newcastle was again at the beginning of a violent tornado’s path.
On May 20, 2013, a tornado developed on the west side of Newcastle and rapidly intensified. The National Weather Service documented EF4 damage shortly after the tornado crossed State Highway 37 before it continued across the Canadian River, through Moore, and into portions of south Oklahoma City.
The tornado ultimately received a maximum rating of EF5. It remained on the ground for approximately 14 miles, killed 24 people, injured more than 200, and caused catastrophic damage along its path.
For Newcastle residents, the 2013 tornado reinforced something the community already understood from 1999: violent tornadoes are a real part of central Oklahoma’s severe weather history.
November 3, 2024: An EF1 Tornado Through Newcastle
Newcastle received another reminder in the early morning hours of November 3, 2024.
An EF1 tornado touched down in northern Blanchard and traveled north-northeast into Newcastle. The National Weather Service documented damage to trees and homes before the tornado reached Newcastle Elementary School, where significant roof damage occurred.
The tornado continued north through Newcastle before dissipating north of town. Its documented path was approximately seven miles long.
This storm is especially useful when talking about tornado preparedness because it happened in November. Spring may receive most of the attention, but tornadoes can occur outside Oklahoma’s traditional spring severe weather season.
What Newcastle’s Tornado History Actually Tells Us
It’s tempting to look at major tornadoes on a map and conclude that Newcastle sits in a special tornado corridor or that tornadoes are becoming stronger. The historical record doesn’t support making those claims that simply.
What Newcastle’s history does show is much more useful for homeowners:
- Newcastle has experienced tornadoes of very different intensities.
- Violent tornadoes have affected Newcastle and surrounding communities more than once.
- Tornadoes can occur outside the months people traditionally associate with Oklahoma tornado season.
- A tornado doesn’t have to receive an EF4 or EF5 rating to cause significant property damage.
- Preparation needs to happen before a tornado warning is issued.
Storm Shelter Options for Newcastle Homes
Because Newcastle is close to Sprague’s Backhoe’s Blanchard location, homeowners can choose from both above-ground and below-ground storm shelter options.
Above-Ground Storm Shelters
Above-ground concrete storm shelters have level entry with no interior stairs. This can make them a practical option for children, older family members, people with mobility limitations, and anyone who simply prefers not to use stairs during a tornado warning.
The full interior dimensions are usable because there are no stairs taking up floor space. Ventilation is provided through a turbine vent and a second vent on the roof, plus a third vent integrated into the door.
Above-ground shelters installed by Sprague’s Backhoe are secured directly into the ground using a steel ground anchoring system. They do not require a separate concrete foundation.
Below-Ground Storm Shelters
Below-ground storm shelters are another option for Newcastle properties with suitable access and installation conditions. Sprague’s Backhoe installs Slope Front and Easy Access models rather than flat-top or ladder-entry shelters.
Because below-ground shelters have interior stairs, some of the interior space is used by the entry. They are also not watertight, so some water can enter during periods of heavy rain, particularly when drainage around the shelter is poor.
Not sure which option is the better fit for your household and property? Take our storm shelter quiz to compare above-ground and below-ground options.
What to Consider Before Installing a Storm Shelter
Choosing between an above-ground and below-ground shelter isn’t just about tornado protection. Think about how your household will actually use it when a warning is issued.
- Does anyone in the household have difficulty using stairs?
- Will you be bringing pets into the shelter?
- How quickly can everyone get from the house to the shelter?
- Does the property have adequate access for installation equipment?
- Is the proposed location prone to standing water or poor drainage?
- How much room do you want for emergency supplies and personal space?
The best storm shelter is one your household can reach and use when severe weather threatens.
Storm Shelter Permits and Registration in Newcastle
Newcastle requires permits for safe rooms and storm shelters within city limits. The City of Newcastle currently lists a storm shelter permit through its Planning and Community Development Department.
The homeowner is responsible for obtaining any required permit before installation. Sprague’s Backhoe can provide the applicable shelter and contractor information needed for the permit process.
Newcastle also offers storm shelter registration. Registering an existing shelter gives local emergency personnel information about its location that may be useful following severe weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Newcastle, Oklahoma been hit by an F5 or EF5 tornado?
Newcastle has been affected by two tornadoes that received the highest rating used at the time. The May 3, 1999 F5 traveled through northern Newcastle, although the National Weather Service documents F4 damage in the Newcastle area. The May 20, 2013 tornado began near Newcastle and ultimately received a maximum EF5 rating along its path.
Did a tornado hit Newcastle Elementary in 2024?
Yes. An EF1 tornado traveled from northern Blanchard into Newcastle during the early morning hours of November 3, 2024. The National Weather Service documented significant roof damage at Newcastle Elementary School.
Can tornadoes happen in Newcastle outside spring?
Yes. Tornadoes can occur in Oklahoma throughout the year. The November 2024 Newcastle tornado is a recent example of significant tornado damage occurring well outside the traditional spring severe weather season.
Should I choose an above-ground or below-ground shelter in Newcastle?
Both can provide tornado protection when properly designed and installed. The better choice depends on your household’s accessibility needs, property layout, installation access, drainage, and personal preference.
Do I need a storm shelter permit in Newcastle?
Yes. The City of Newcastle lists a permit requirement for safe rooms and storm shelters. Homeowners should confirm current requirements with the Newcastle Planning and Community Development Department before installation.
Can I register my storm shelter with the City of Newcastle?
Yes. Newcastle provides a storm shelter registration program for residents. Registration gives emergency personnel information about the location of your shelter.
How long does a storm shelter installation take in Newcastle?
Above-ground installations typically take about two hours when access, weather, and ground conditions are favorable. Below-ground installations generally take about 3–4 hours, depending on property access and ground conditions.
Key Takeaways
- The May 3, 1999 F5 tornado traveled through northern Newcastle as part of its 37-mile path across central Oklahoma.
- The May 20, 2013 tornado began near Newcastle and ultimately received a maximum EF5 rating.
- An EF1 tornado traveled through Newcastle and significantly damaged Newcastle Elementary in November 2024.
- Newcastle’s history shows that tornadoes of different intensities can affect the community and can occur outside spring.
- Sprague’s Backhoe installs both above-ground and below-ground storm shelters in Newcastle.
- The shelters Sprague’s Backhoe installs are designed to meet or exceed FEMA safe room guidelines.
- Newcastle requires storm shelter permits and also provides storm shelter registration for residents.
Considering a storm shelter for your Newcastle home? Contact Sprague’s Backhoe at (405) 600-4905 to compare above-ground and below-ground options or request a free quote.
