A catastrophic storm system unleashed violent tornadoes and wildfires across the central and southern United States, killing at least 32 people and leaving widespread destruction in its wake. Forecasters warn that severe weather will continue over the next 24 hours.
In western Kansas’ Sherman County, eight people lost their lives in a vehicle collision after strong winds created hazardous, dusty conditions on a major highway. Over 50 vehicles were involved in the fatal crash.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves confirmed that six people were killed across three counties, with three more reported missing. Additionally, nearly 30 people sustained injuries throughout the state.
Missouri, the hardest-hit state, saw the most fatalities, with at least 12 dead after tornadoes tore through the region overnight. One man died when a tornado completely destroyed his home. In Arkansas, officials reported three deaths in Independence County, while 29 others were injured across eight counties.
“We have teams out surveying the damage from last night’s tornadoes and have first responders on the ground to assist,” posted Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on X.
In response to the severe weather, Sanders, Reeves, and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared states of emergency. Kemp issued the declaration in anticipation of further storms moving through on Sunday morning.
The storm system also brought deadly dust storms, with three fatalities reported in Amarillo, Texas, due to crashes during a Friday dust storm. Winds, which reached speeds of up to 130 km/h, fueled over 100 wildfires and exacerbated the situation.
An area impacting more than 100 million people was forecast to experience extreme weather. While blizzards were predicted for the northern states, wildfire risks loomed over the south. In Oklahoma, where over 130 wildfires were reported, evacuations were ordered. Nearly 300 homes were damaged or destroyed, with fires spreading across 689 square kilometers, according to Governor Kevin Still.
The National Weather Service also warned of severe rainfall, leading to significant flooding in some areas and leaving many more at risk. Authorities are advising residents in affected regions to stay indoors and exercise caution.
