As the Indiana Pacers found out, delays await even when you can still fly into Oklahoma City. Airports were thrown into chaos due to severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds. The Pacers will soon participate in NBA Finals media day, no less, at the Paycom Center. On Thursday night, they will do battle against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1 of the championship series.
Forecasters issued multiple weather alerts for Oklahoma City, including a tornado warning, a flood watch, and a severe thunderstorm watch. These alerts spread to most of the surrounding states, raising fears of travel-related deaths and widespread travel chaos.
The Pacers’ flight was diverted to Tulsa, Oklahoma, about 100 miles away from their final destination. After a successful emergency landing in Tulsa, the team had to refuel and head back out. That flight was scheduled to touch down in Oklahoma City Tuesday night. It was severely delayed due to the severe weather in the region.
Multiple reports verified that one person could be seen chasing tornadoes from the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman. This campus is located just about 20 miles south of Oklahoma City. The string of natural disaster emergencies was enough to spike fears among Delaware residents and public officials. Even as response efforts played out, emergency services were tense and ready.
Wednesday’s NBA Finals media day will be an important one for both teams. More importantly, it provides an opportunity for players and coaches to meet the media and develop a rapport before the championship series kicks off. The Paycom Center is already gearing up for Game 1 this Thursday night. It will be there, prepared to treat fans and players alike, as soon as the skies clear!
Given the extreme weather conditions disrupting travel plans, each team is working with the other to find a mutually agreeable way to reschedule. The Pacers intend to arrive in Oklahoma City Tuesday night. They’ll proceed, if the weather allows for safe travel.
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