Kay James holding her cat amid the ruins of their home. Photo Credit: Chris Landsberger, Oklahoman, via Associated Press
Stephanie Henkel, Global Animal
Monday, a massive tornado struck the Oklahoma City area around 3 p.m. and stayed on the ground for a grueling 40 minutes. The violent cyclone swept through the region in a destructive furry, leveling businesses, demolishing homes, and destroying two elementary schools.
One of the deadliest storms in U.S. history, the tornado carved a trail through the region approximately two miles wide and 17 miles long. The devastation was so exhaustive that city officials had to race to print new street signs to help direct rescuers and residents through an almost unrecognizable city.
Many are desperately trying to reach and find loved ones affected by the life-changing event, and organizations, like Google, the Oklahoma Humane Society, and Reddit, are working around the clock to help confirm the safety of tornado survivors.
Google has set up a Crisis Response Center page and enabled a Person Finder tool, while the Oklahoma Humane Society works tirelessly to ensure that pets are returned home. The animal-friendly nonprofit is committed to housing and treating lost and injured animals and is receiving a little help from an unlikely source.
Reddit users are banding together for a somewhat unconventional pet rescue program. Redditors are keeping track of lost and found pets in the town of Moore with easily searchable photos and information on the site.
The number of people and animals missing is still somewhat unknown, and rescuers and organizations are committed to helping families and pets in the wake of disaster.
DONATE: Global Animal is collecting donations for vetted animal rescue organizations working on the ground to help with medical costs for injured animals, boarding and food, as well as helping reunite pets and their guardians.
Your compassion in action and support of Global Animal Foundation can help save the lives of animals in crisis.
lots of prayers for all the pets and people.
prayers prayers lots lots lots of prayers and love to oklahoma people and animals, may god help you heal and find your loved ones and furry pets , may every one be safe and be strong , love from canada.