Additional Coverage:
Weekend Storms Claim at Least 28 Lives Across Midwest and South
Tragic storms ripped through the lower Midwest and South this weekend, leaving at least 28 dead and a trail of devastation. Kentucky and Missouri bore the brunt of the severe weather, which included multiple tornadoes.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed 19 fatalities in his state as of Sunday afternoon, with the death toll rising throughout the day. The victims include a firefighter from Laurel County.
Earlier reports indicated a single, powerful EF3 tornado was responsible for the initial casualties. Seventeen deaths occurred in Laurel County and one in Pulaski County.
The Governor expressed his grief, noting the widespread destruction and the profound loss of life, with many homes completely obliterated. He announced that the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund will assist families with funeral expenses.
As of Saturday, 10 individuals remained in critical condition due to storm-related injuries. Survey teams will be deployed Monday to assess the damage and apply for federal aid.
Debris removal efforts are also underway. While a reprieve from the storms is expected Sunday, the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a return of severe weather, including possible flash flooding, Monday and Tuesday.
Missouri reported seven fatalities, five in St. Louis County and two in Scott County.
The St. Louis Children’s Hospital and Barnes-Jewish Hospital treated over 60 patients combined, with most since discharged.
St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer stated that an estimated 5,000 buildings were impacted by the storms and two tornadoes that touched down Friday.
Central Missouri faces further risk of severe thunderstorms Sunday night into Monday morning, with potential for large hail and damaging winds.
Virginia also experienced the effects of the storm system, with two fatalities reported due to falling trees striking vehicles in separate incidents. Dry weather is anticipated in Virginia from Sunday through early Tuesday.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed she has been in contact with the governors of Missouri, Kentucky, and Illinois, offering federal support and resources.
The NWS confirmed 28 tornadoes on Friday and has issued an enhanced risk warning for severe weather for parts of Kansas and Oklahoma on Sunday, where the tornado threat is highest. A slight risk of excessive rainfall is also in effect for eastern Kansas, Oklahoma, and the Ozark Mountains through Monday morning.
Power outages continue to affect thousands of residents, with over 49,000 in Missouri and 26,000 in Kentucky without power as of Sunday. Restoration efforts are ongoing.