No Malaysians affected by Oklahoma tornado

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to monitor the latest developments after a giant tornado hit Oklahoma, United States.

The tornado occurred on May 20, 2.56pm (local time) and killed at least 51 people, 20 of them children. The tornado affected parts of the city and suburbs destroying homes, cars, and crushing at least two schools.

In a press statement issues by the ministry, no Malaysians have been reported to be affected by the tornado so far.

A weather official told AFP that the massive tornado was a top category EF5 system with winds over 200 mph (321 kmh).

"It's an EF5, the most powerful tornado classification,” said Kelly Pirtle of the NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman, Oklahoma.

The ministry will provide updates from time to time. However, concerned family members and friends can contact the Consulate General of Malaysia, New York at +1-212 490 2722 and +19179696700.