Over 20 tornadoes allegedly hit the states of Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, and Mississippi. Meteorologists caution that the most severe conditions may still be ahead, with the intense weather expected to reach its climax on Saturday evening.
Several tornadoes have struck extensive areas of the U.S. Southeast and Midwest, destroying houses and resulting in at least 16 fatalities, according to authorities.
Over 20 twisters were recorded from Friday night through early Saturday morning as a low-pressure system brought intense thunderstorms across the nation’s midsection, according to David Roth, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
There is a substantial likelihood of additional tornados sweeping through Alabama and Mississippi today, with the probability standing at 30%," he stated. "This is quite notable.
At least 11 fatalities reported in Missouri exclusively.
The authorities stated that the highest number of casualties occurred in Missouri, with a minimum of 11 deaths confirmed. According to the state’s law enforcement agency, tornadoes, severe storms, and giant hail led to fallen power lines and toppled trees, resulting in significant property destruction.
Tornadoes struck Illinois, Mississippi, and Arkansas as well, with authorities reporting that at least three individuals lost their lives.
"Teams are currently assessing the destruction caused by yesterday evening’s tornadoes, and we have first responders on site providing assistance," stated Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders on X, noting that she has allocated $250,000 (€228,000) for disaster relief efforts.
The broadcaster NBC stated that over 400,000 individuals in the Midwest and Southern regions of the United States found themselves without electricity.
What is the anticipated development of these storms like?
Additional tornadoes are expected across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee for the duration of Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service, the storms were heading eastward, potentially reaching Florida and Georgia by midnight.
Meteorologists indicated that the intense weather conditions were anticipated to intensify further, with an elevated chance of tornadoes and heavy thunderstorms developing as the night progressed.
Edited by: Saim Dušan Inayatullah
Author: Natalie Muller (with Reuters, AP, AFP, and dpa)
