Severe Tornado Outbreak Claims 37 Lives Across Seven States

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new tornado watch was issued Sunday for parts of West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania as millions of Americans remain on high alert. Violent, long-track tornadoes with wind speeds up to 80 mph and large hail are predicted to move east across the Midwest and South, following a cross-country storm system that previously triggered severe weather in the Plains states.

The storm system has been catastrophic, leading to raging winds that have resulted in wildfires and at least 37 fatalities across the Midwest and South, with additional damage expected as the storm continues its march eastward.

As of Sunday evening, cities north of Tampa, Florida, including Zephyrhills, Pasadena Hills, and Crystal Springs, are under tornado warnings which are in effect until 7:30 p.m. ET, according to the National Weather Service.

In Mississippi, Governor Tate Reeves reported that at least 12 tornadoes likely swept through the state during the storm. Following a state of emergency declaration on Saturday night, Reeves confirmed that the storm has resulted in six deaths and 27 injuries, although three individuals initially reported missing have been found alive. He noted that 23 counties in Mississippi are reporting damage, with 12 counties filing emergency requests.

Earlier Sunday, President Donald Trump addressed the situation from his social media platform, stating that the White House is closely monitoring the ongoing tornadoes and storms impacting the affected regions. “My Administration is ready to assist State and Local Officials, as they help their communities to try and recover from the damage,” Trump wrote, also mentioning the deployment of the National Guard to Arkansas. He asked Americans to join him and First Lady Melania Trump in praying for those affected.

The severe weather has resulted in a tragic toll across multiple states. Missouri has reported the most fatalities, with at least 12 deaths attributed to the storm. Alabama Governor Kay Ivey confirmed that three people were killed in her state on Saturday, including two in Plantersville and Winterboro. “Yesterday’s severe weather impacted most of Alabama,” Ivey stated. She added that 52 of the state’s 67 counties are reporting damage, and assessments are ongoing, emphasizing the incredible work of first responders.

In addition to the reported fatalities, the storm claimed eight lives in Kansas, six in Mississippi, four in Texas, three in Arkansas, and one in Oklahoma, according to officials. As the situation evolves, authorities continue to monitor and respond to emerging developments in this large-scale weather event.