Severe storms prompt emergency waiver of oversized vehicles in OK

Severe weather in Oklahoma
National Weather Service

Oklahoma Gov. J. Kevin Stitt recently signed an emergency declaration covering five counties hit by severe weather earlier this month.

Until May 19, the requirements for size and weight permits are waived for certain oversized vehicles under Title 47 of the Oklahoma statutes. The counties included in the order are Cleveland, Lincoln, McClain, Oklahoma, and Pottawatomie.

The emergency declaration comes after severe storms, including 12 tornadoes, straight-line winds, and hail April 19 caused extensive damage to power lines and infrastructure, according to the order. The Oklahoma State Department of Health said 65 weather-related injuries were reported statewide by area hospitals.

Oklahoma’s temporary suspension, enacted on April 19, applies to oversized vehicles whose sole purpose is the transportation of materials and supplies used for emergency relief and power restoration, said the order.

Waived requirements for these vehicles include the cost and fees of overweight permits under Oklahoma statutes, licensing and operating authority as required by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, and licensing and registration authority as required by the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

In addition, the requirements under Parts 390 through 399 pursuant to part 390.23 of Title 49 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations are also waived for vehicles providing emergency relief under this order.