22K Insurance Claims Filed After May 19, 20 Oklahoma Tornadoes

The Oklahoma Insurance Department says more than 22,000 claims have been filed for property and vehicles damaged by tornadoes that struck the state on May 19 and 20.

The agency says claims filed so far represent insured losses of at least $85 million. The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management says a total of 1,248 structures were destroyed by the tornado.

Insurance Commissioner John Doak says the number of tornado damage claims is expected to grow. But Doak says the large number already filed shows just how disastrous severe weather can be and the importance of having property insurance.

Doak says his agency has staffed several consumer assistance booths in affected areas to help storm victims with insurance claims and questions.