A catastrophic wave of severe weather has swept across the central and southern United States, leaving a trail of destruction and claiming the lives of at least 40 people across seven states. Violent tornadoes, raging wildfires, and blinding dust storms have combined to create an unprecedented disaster.
The impacts have been devastating, with 40 deaths reported across Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Texas, and Oklahoma. 52 tornadoes have been reported, causing extensive damage to homes and infrastructure, while over 170,000 acres burned in Oklahoma, destroying hundreds of structures.
READ: High Fire Risk Alert: Red Flag Warning Issued For Central And Southwest Florida
Additionally, near-zero visibility in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas led to a massive 71-vehicle pileup in Kansas, and nearly 1,100 flights were canceled nationwide.
State-by-state, the devastation has been immense.
In Missouri, there were 12 deaths and widespread damage.
In Kansas, 8 people died, including those from a massive pileup on I-70 caused by a dust storm. Arkansas saw 3 deaths and severe tornado damage. Mississippi was particularly hard hit, with 6 deaths and towns like Tylertown heavily impacted by tornadoes.
Alabama reported 3 deaths and extensive damage across 52 counties. Texas suffered 4 deaths, primarily due to dust storms and wildfires. Finally, Oklahoma experienced 4 deaths, with massive wildfires destroying hundreds of homes and buildings.
Mississippi experienced devastating tornadoes, with significant damage reported in Tylertown and surrounding areas.
Governor Tate Reeves declared a state of emergency. Oklahoma officials reported over 130 blazes across 44 counties, with over 170,000 acres burned. Governor Kevin Stitt reported his own ranch was destroyed by the fires. In Kansas, a massive 71-vehicle pileup on I-70, caused by a severe dust storm, resulted in 8 fatalities.
The severe weather threat has shifted eastward, with tornadoes and damaging thunderstorms continuing to impact the Tennessee Valley and Gulf Coast states. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
First responders, emergency management officials, and linemen are working tirelessly to assess the damage and provide assistance to affected communities.
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