Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes wreaked havoc across the central and southern US on Wednesday, adding to a two-week period of extreme weather.
The US has experienced at least one tornado daily since April 25, totaling 14 consecutive days, with over 300 tornadoes reported during this time span.
April and May, typically active months for tornadoes and severe weather, continue to pose threats, with over 60 million people in the South and East facing potential severe thunderstorms and tornadoes on Thursday.
Tennessee, especially hard hit, is still grappling with substantial damage from Wednesday’s storms, with multiple tornadoes and flash flood emergencies reported.
Tornado emergencies unfolded in Maury County, Tennessee, and Henagar, Alabama, Wednesday evening, leading to casualties, injuries, and extensive damage.
Reports indicate fatalities, injuries, and property damage across the South, including fatalities in Tennessee and North Carolina, injuries in Maury County, and significant destruction of property.
Torrential rains triggered flash floods and necessitated water rescues in Tennessee, particularly affecting areas north of Nashville and Sumner County.
Fallen trees caused significant damage to properties and infrastructure in Gaston County, North Carolina, leading to numerous service calls and school closures. At the same time, power outages affected thousands of homes and businesses across multiple states.