Midwest City closes public storm shelters

MIDWEST CITY, Okla.—Severe storm season is still months away but one Oklahoma town is changing its policies related to spring weather that will affect hundreds of families.

The Midwest City Council passed a resolution to close all the public shelters back in December but it became official on Jan. 1.

Officials say they made the move to protect its citizens.

City leaders say families who are trying to get to public storm shelters during a tornado outbreak are actually putting themselves at risk.

They added that being in a vehicle is one of the most dangerous places you can be during a twister.

Experts say instead, parents should create a plan for when severe weather hits.

Previously, Midwest City offered three public shelters where residents could ride out the storm.

Last year, Edmond Public Schools decided they would no longer allow people to use its building as shelters.